LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister, Shahbaz Sharif has questioned the re-appointments of deposed judges of the Lahore High Court, saying it is a violation of the Constitution. He has also reminded the governor that re-appointments or fresh appointments of judges could not be made without his mandatory advice.

In a letter addressed to Punjab Governor, Salman Taseer and also referred to President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister, Yousuf Raza Gilani, Shahbaz Sharif pointed out that the fresh appointments, confirmation of ad hoc judges or reinstatement of the deposed judges could not have been effected without his advice. Senior journalist, Ansar Abbasi said Punjab CM asserted that constitutionally his advice was mandatory for the appointments of judges in the Lahore High Court (LHC).

The letter addressed to Punjab Governor further said that the issue related to the crucial matters concerning administration of justice in the province and it was also very vital because the payments for this would be made from the province’s taxpayers’ money. Shahbaz Sharif pointed out in the letter that some judges appointed on one-year probation in LHC were made permanent, the probations of 2 judges extended, while one judge has been relieved. These actions were taken without fulfilling the mandatory clauses. Shahbaz Sharif has queried the Governor under what circumstances these actions were taken ignoring the requirement of taking mandatory CM advice by your office.