Imran Khan files intra-court appeal against SC verdict on IHC judges' transfer

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has filed an intra-court appeal against the Supreme Court's (SC) verdict in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) judges' transfer case, 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Friday.

In the appeal, the PTI founder has requested that the SC decision be declared null and void, stressing the importance of safeguarding judicial independence, seniority, and the autonomy of the judiciary.

The appeal argued that the transfer of judges constituted an attack on judicial freedom, claiming that bringing three specific judges to the Islamabad High Court (IHC) was a deliberate attempt to sideline independent-minded jurists.

Former premier Imran Khan, as the petitioner, further stated that several judges of the Islamabad High Court had previously written letters raising concerns over external interference in judicial affairs. 

However, PTI founder Imran Khan added that instead of taking action on those letters, the authorities allegedly undermined the seniority of the judges involved.

Imran Khan's appeal also contended that the president had no constitutional authority to determine the transfer or seniority of judges. Under Article 200 of the Constitution, it is argued, any transfer must be temporary in nature.

Reporter: Amanat Gishkori