The Peshawar High Court extended its stay order to March 13, barring the MNAs appointed to the Lower House of parliament on reserved seats from taking the oath of office.
On Thursday morning, the court resumed proceedings on an application of the Sunni Ittehad Council regarding the election commission's denial of reserved seats to the party, signalling the start of a significant legal deliberation.
Headed by Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim, a five-member larger bench convened to address the SIC's plea. Present in the courtroom were the petitioner's lawyers, the additional attorney general (AAG), and representatives from other parties concerned.
Justice Ijaz Anwar, Justice S.M. Attique Shah, Justice Shakeel Ahmed and Justice Arshad Ali were also part of the larger bench.
Also Read: PHC stops National Assembly reserved seats members from taking oath
During the hearing, the AAG noted that the attorney general was unavailable, as he was attending proceedings in the Supreme Court. In light of this absence, Sanaullah urged for a provision of time to adequately prepare the case.
"We summoned the attorney general," remarked Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim.
Furthermore, Qazi Anwar Advocate announced that the new advocate general would be appointed today.
Also Read: After getting reserved seats, ruling coalition enjoys two-thirds majority in NA
In consideration of the ongoing developments and the absence of the attorney general, the court decided to extend the stay order until March 13, ensuring that the status quo is maintained on the oath of National Assembly members on reserved seats.
Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim affirmed that the attorney general is expected to appear at the next hearing, underscoring the importance of his presence in the proceedings.
The hearing concluded with the announcement that Justice Ibrahim would preside over the case once again on Wednesday, signifying the continuation of the legal process.
