‘Conflict between institutions poses a danger to democratic process’

RECORDER REPORT

ISLAMABAD: Leader of Opposition in National Assembly Syed Khursheed Shah on Monday urged Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Saqib Nisar and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif to practice restrain when it comes to delivering statements against one another.

Speaking to media in his chamber, the opposition leader said conflict between state institutions posed a danger to the democratic process. He said the conflict between the government and the judiciary was acquiring dangerous proportions.

"I apologies but Sharif should not be making such statements," he said. "I also apologies to the chief justice but he should not deliver such statements either," Shah said.

Referring to recent top court directives on withdrawing security of individuals not entitled to protection. The opposition leader said the judiciary would draw flak in the scenario of a politician being attacked. "The judiciary should not intervene in such matters," he said.

Asfandyar Wali Khan, Maulana Fazlur Rehman have (also) been attacked. "Will the chief justice be answerable if something untoward happens," he posed question.

Speaking on Sharif and daughter Maryam's London trip, Khursheed Shah said that he always knew the deposed premier would return. "Sharif would be reduced to a political nonentity if he chose to remain in London given the struggle he has become party to," he said. Shah also prayed for Kulsoom's speedy recovery, saying she had fought for democracy.