Justice Afridi recuses from hearing on judicial interference concerns

Justice Yahya Afridi has stepped down from the suo motu hearing regarding a letter from Islamabad High Court judges concerning interference in judicial matters by intelligence agencies. The seven-member bench, led by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, includes six other judges. During the initial hearing, Chief Justice Isa emphasized the Supreme Court's zero tolerance for such interference. Justice Afridi expressed concerns that invoking Article 184/3 could jeopardize the independence of high courts. Justice Athar Minallah also raised doubts about certain paragraphs in the order, highlighting potential political implications in cases. He praised the IHC judges for being whistleblowers and urged support for their actions.

The bench issued notices to key legal bodies for suggestions on how the judiciary should respond as an institution. The order revealed that a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was held to address the gravity of the situation. The AGP's arguments emphasized that the judges' letter did not implicate CJP Isa. The SC initiated the suo motu notice following a petition signed by around 300 lawyers, rejecting an inquiry commission led by former CJP Jilani. The IHC judges had previously urged CJP Isa to convene a Judicial Convention to address intelligence interference in judicial functions.

The recusal of Justice Afridi and the concerns raised by Justice Minallah shed light on the delicate balance between judicial independence and external influences. The judiciary's response to these challenges will be crucial in upholding the rule of law and ensuring the integrity of the legal system.