Former Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa Faces Protest in London
Incident Overview
On October 29, 2024, a distressing incident involving former Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP), Qazi Faez Isa, unfolded outside the Middle Temple in London. Mohammad Faisal, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UK, expressed regret over the london-news.net/2024/06/10/news/mlb-players-on-london-series-make-it-more-of-an-event-fox-sports/” title=”MLB players on London Series: 'Make it more of an event' | FOX Sports”>event and confirmed that actions are being initiated against those responsible for assaulting Isa. ”This was a highly regrettable occurrence. We are addressing it,” he reassured reporters.
The clash transpired during an event commemorating Isa’s elevation as Callee after his tenure as chief justice ended. The Middle Temple is one of London’s four revered Inns of Court that provide legal training and grant certifications for legal practice.
Background on Qazi Faez Isa’s Honor
Qazi Faez Isa has achieved notable recognition by becoming the first Pakistani judge elected as a bencher at this prestigious institution where he once studied law—following in his father’s footsteps as an alumnus.
Protest Dynamics
A demonstration orchestrated by members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party took place near the Middle Temple, spearheaded by prominent figures such as Sahibzada Jahangir and Zulfi Bukhari. Although around 80 individuals initially protested peacefully against his appointment to the bench following retirement, approximately ten protesters lingered after its conclusion and confronted Isa’s vehicle three hours later.
As Isa’s car exited at approximately 10:20 PM—the vehicle adorned with diplomatic plates from the Pakistan High Commission—protesters led by Shayan Ali attempted to halt it while chanting slogans directed against him.
Government’s Response
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has indicated that severe measures will be implemented against ISA’s assailants, including potential cancellation of their Pakistani CNICs and passports if identified through surveillance footage from the scene. “We’ll initiate legal procedures promptly after lodging a formal complaint,” Naqvi stated firmly.
When approached by Geo News about rights pertaining to protest under UK law, Shayan defended peaceful assembly principles enshrined within British regulations but warned against any retaliatory measures aimed at suppressing dissent from abroad: “No laws exist here that can limit our right to peaceful protest.”
Diplomatic Measures
In response to this altercation affecting diplomatic property—a vehicle belonging to the Pakistan High Commission was damaged—the commission is pursuing formal charges against nine individuals involved with Scotland Yard stepping in for registration purposes.
British-Pakistani MP Afzal Khan reinforced that respect should be afforded regardless of one’s position or background while emphasizing adherence to principled debate even amidst disagreement. Another parliament member, Yasmin Qureshi echoed similar sentiments asserting protests must remain peaceful: “Dissent must coexist without hostility; there should be no disruption caused upon others.”
both diplomatic authorities and officials participating in these discussions seek resolution amid heightened tensions arising from political expressions during international engagements.
