The Supreme Court on Tuesday said the handing over of additional charge of federal ombudsman to Suleman Farooqi was a slap on the parliament’s face.
The remarks were passed by Justice Jawad S Khawaja during hearing of the case regarding the appointment of federal ombudsman.
“The promulgation of an ordinance by the president to hand over additional charge of Wafaqi Mohtasib (ombudsman) to Suleman Farooqi is a slap on the face of parliament. Why was the ordinance promulgated? It is beyond my comprehension how decisions like this are made openly,” Justice Khawaja said.
Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry remarked the president promulgated ordinance to allow benefit to an individual.
“Suleman Farooqi matter will be referred to the FIA. President made amendment to benefit one person. Government could seek approval from parliament. Presently, we will review the record.”
Wasim Sajjad, counsel for Suleman Farooqi, took the plea that parliament issued act of reforms on March 20 and the president promulgated ordinance on March 22, under which secretary general Suleman Farooqi could hold additional charge of Wafaqi Mohtasib.
The court expressed annoyance, saying if any deficiency was left, the approval could be obtained from parliament on this count.
“It will be proper that Farooqi appears in court in person in this case and explains his position. This is tantamount to by-passing the parliament. President took the step to this extent to provide benefit to one person. We will review the record first. Case will be sent to the FIA on matters of date of appointment and clarification.”
Justice Jawad Khawaja observed, “Why was the need felt to exercise such haste in handing over the additional charge through this ordinance?”
The CJP added, “Amendment was made to retain Suleman Farooqi as the secretary general to the president.”
Wasim Sajjad said Farooqi wanted to appear in the court in person, therefore, any date may be fixed during the month of August in this regard, as his wife was seriously ill and he was abroad in connection with her treatment.
He would return home in August.
The court adjourned the hearing until August 1 and ordered Farooqi to appear in the court in person on the next hearing.