Introduction of Bhutto Case

The Bhutto Presidential Reference case is a significant event in the history of Pakistan’s judiciary. It revolves around the trial, sentence, and execution of the late Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. The case has been a subject of intense debate and scrutiny for over four decades.

Background

Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, the founder of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), was sentenced to death in a controversial trial that many believe was politically motivated. The case has been a contentious issue in Pakistan’s political and judicial history.

The Presidential Reference

During the PPP’s last rule between 2008 and 2013, former President Asif Ali Zardari sent a reference to the Supreme Court, requesting an opinion after analyzing the Supreme Court’s and the Lahore High Court’s judgments in the Bhutto case based on the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution.

The Verdict

On March 6, 2024, the Supreme Court of Pakistan declared that Zulfikar Ali Bhutto did not get a fair trial. Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, while reading the court’s short order in the case, stated, “We did not find that fair trial and due process requirements were met”.

Reactions

The verdict was welcomed by the PPP. Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari termed the Supreme Court’s opinion as “historic”. The pursuit of justice was described as a “labour of love” by President Asif Ali Zardari.

Conclusion

The Bhutto Presidential Reference case is a landmark in Pakistan’s legal history. The Supreme Court’s verdict underscores the importance of fair trials and due process in the justice system. It serves as a reminder that justice delayed is justice denied, but the pursuit of justice, no matter how long it takes, is a cornerstone of a democratic society.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Bhutto Presidential Reference case?
   The Bhutto Presidential Reference case is a significant event in the history of Pakistan’s judiciary. It revolves around the trial, sentence, and execution of the late Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.
2. What was the verdict of the Supreme Court on the Bhutto Presidential Reference case?
   On March 6, 2024, the Supreme Court of Pakistan declared that Zulfikar Ali Bhutto did not get a fair trial. Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa stated, “We did not find that fair trial and due process requirements were met”.
3. Were Bhutto’s human rights respected during the trial?
   The Supreme Court’s verdict suggests that Bhutto’s human rights, as enshrined in the constitution, were not fully respected during the trial.
4. Will the Supreme Court’s decision set a precedent for all high courts?
   As per Article 189, the Supreme Court’s decision could potentially set a precedent for all high courts.
5. Was the death sentence impartial and free from bias?
   The Supreme Court’s verdict suggests that the death sentence may not have been impartial and free from bias.
6. What was the reaction of the PPP to the verdict?
   The verdict was welcomed by the PPP. Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari termed the Supreme Court’s opinion as “historic”. The pursuit of justice was described as a “labour of love” by President Asif Ali Zardari.