Senator Faisal Vawda and MNA Mustafa Kamal appealed to the Supreme Court on Tuesday to retract the contempt of court charges. Vawda clarified that his remarks were never intended to undermine the judiciary, while Kamal tendered an unconditional apology before the court.
On May 17, a three-judge Supreme Court bench, led by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, issued contempt charges against the two lawmakers for their critical comments against the judiciary during separate press conferences at the National Press Club in Islamabad.
The notices were issued due to alleged malicious allegations against the judiciary and its members.
In his response, Vawda expressed hope that his intentions for the country’s improvement would be understood, and the show-cause notice against him would be withdrawn. He explained that his words were figurative and not aimed at any specific individual.
Furthermore, Vawda highlighted instances where the court had not taken action against direct threats and derogatory remarks aimed at judges. He argued that his press conference was a plea for unity and understanding of Pakistan’s real issues.
Meanwhile, Mustafa Kamal apologized unconditionally for his remarks and sought clemency from the Supreme Court, emphasizing the importance of upholding the sanctity of the judiciary.
Additionally, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority provided transcripts of the lawmakers’ press conferences.
