Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial wrote a letter to Speaker Raja Pervaiz Ashraf on Wednesday to congratulate him on the golden jubilee of the 1973 constitution.

“The constitutional scheme makes parliament the highest repository of legislative power and authority in the land,” the CJP wrote.

He added that the social, political and economic goals set by the constitution are only realised through the laws made by the parliament.

“I extend my prayers and good wishes for parliament to make good laws that comply with the standards laid down in the constitution and lead the nation towards greater peace, prosperity and progress under the mantle of the constitution, insha’Allah.”

The CJP also explained that he could not attend the special convention held to mark the golden jubilee owing to ‘judicial commitments’.

Justice Qazi Faez Isa had been the lone participant from the higher judiciary at the convention, which had raised eyebrows and led to criticism on the judge. Justice Isa was forced to explain, first in a speech, then in a press release that all judges had been invited and he had not chosen where to sit. He also distanced himself from any political statements made in the session.