SC final authority to interpret constitution, says Nawaz

Calling for harmony among all pillars of the state, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif said on Wednesday that any attempt to create rift in the army would be against national interests, while adding that the superior judiciary had the final authority to interpret the constitution.
In a statement, Nawaz said that the army was a symbol of security and defence, and every patriotic Pakistani wanted to see it strong and united. He said the military under the leadership of General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani had avoided any adventurism so far, and that the chief of army staff (COAS) had stressed about abiding the constitution in his latest statement. “Similarly, the independent judiciary is giving historic verdicts according to law and constitution without any fear or favour,” Nawaz said.
He said the central point of the statements issued by the chief justice and the COAS was the supremacy of the constitution. “These statements are symbols of hope for a new Pakistan,” he added.
Nawaz said that everyone, including politicians, judges and generals, had committed mistakes in the past, adding that it was a highly welcome sign that mistakes were being realised, reforms were being taken, and supremacy of the constitution being observed.
He said the judiciary was playing an important role in dispensing justice according to the constitution. He lauded the role of lawyers, civil society, and the media for their role in restoring an independent judiciary targeted by a dictator.
The PML-N chief said the superior judiciary had the final authority to interpret the constitution, and that it was its duty to award punishment to every criminal irrespective of his position, stature and name. He warned that any attempt to weaken the judiciary would be tantamount to the constitution’s violation, and would send the country into lawlessness.