Qazi Isa refutes Rawalpindi Commissioner's allegations

Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faiz Isa refuting the allegations of Rawalpindi Commissioner against him has said that anyone can make accusations, but they should also provide proof, reported 24NewsHD TV channel. 

Talking to the media persons outside the apex court on Saturday, he asked Rawalpindi Division Commissioner Liaqat Ali Chatha to present evidence to back his allegations against the top judge's involvement in the rigging of the February 8 elections.

"You level baseless allegations. There is no truth to it nor is evidence presented. You can level allegations all you want, it is your right but present evidence to back it. Whether good or bad, it will be determined later," the CJP said in reaction. 

He went on to say that his role was only restricted to the facilitation of the conduct of elections. "If someone did not want elections, that’s another story," he said.The CJP said that the apex court did not order the elections; instead, it asked both constitutional authorities — the president and the election commission — to stage the elections after arriving at a consensus on the date.

The CJP questioned his and apex court's connection to the polls, saying that the court only receive and decide upon petitions linked to elections.

Qazi Isa further clarified that he did not order the election and that he was not involved in any wrongdoing.

He asked Rawalpindi Commissioner who had accused him of some irregularities, to present any evidence against him.

CJP said that there was an attempt to sabotage the election, but he and his colleagues had foiled it.

He said that he would not be intimidated by baseless allegations and that he would uphold the constitution and the law.

 Earlier, Commissioner Rawalpindi Liaqat Ali Chatta admitting to election rigging in Rawalpindi division has resigned from his post. He also alleged ECP and CJP for their involvement in the rigging.

Addressing a press conference, Commissioner Rawalpindi, acknowledged his involvement in rigging elections by manipulating losing candidates into winning positions.

He declared his inability to bear the burden of guilt any longer and has announced his decision to surrender himself to the police for his role in the electoral irregularities and deserves capital punishment. Chatta said he saw the returning officers crying.

Liaqat Ali said that he apologises to his subordinates for forcing them to participate in the rigging process.