By Asif Naveed
ISLAMABAD; The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday heard a petition filed by MNA Sher Afzal Marwat challenging Ishaq Dar’s holding of two positions simultaneously — Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister.
During the hearing, Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro questioned how a Deputy Prime Minister could exercise executive powers, noting that the Constitution does not explicitly mention such authority for the post.
“Where in the Constitution is it stated that the Deputy Prime Minister can exercise executive powers?” Justice Soomro asked. “If tomorrow the Deputy PM says he will appoint an Assistant PM, what will happen then?”
The court sought assistance from Ishaq Dar’s lawyer regarding the constitutional scope of the Deputy Prime Minister’s powers. “This may happen in France, Iran, or Turkey, but explain how it applies here,” Justice Soomro remarked.
The judge instructed the lawyers to prepare arguments on the constitutional position of the Deputy Prime Minister and present them at the next hearing.
The petitioner’s lawyer, Riaz Hanif Rahi, argued that Ishaq Dar currently holds two posts and chairs important meetings, while the Constitution makes no mention of the office of Deputy Prime Minister.
The hearing was adjourned, and the next date will be announced later.
