Pakistan High Court Chiefs Address Judicial Interference Concerns

Recently, the chief justices of various high courts in Pakistan have voiced their worries regarding potential interference by spy agencies in judicial matters. While Chief Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi of the Sindh High Court reassured that he has not encountered any such interference, his counterparts at the Lahore High Court and the Peshawar High Court acknowledged the issue. Justice Abbasi stressed the importance of judicial independence and mentioned isolated incidents of attempted interference that were promptly dealt with.

Chief Justice Malik Shahzad Ahmad Khan of the Lahore High Court expressed optimism about the diminishing influence of the establishment in judicial affairs, underscoring the judiciary's dedication to dispensing justice impartially. He emphasized the necessity for judicial unity to combat external pressures and called upon lawmakers and politicians to endorse the courts' autonomy in decision-making.

Justice Khan also cited a recent case where a sector commander of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) faced a contempt notice for allegedly pressuring a judge. He praised the judge's determination to uphold justice despite external influences and encouraged all judges to remain resolute in their commitment to fairness.

The judiciary in Pakistan is steadfast in its efforts to preserve independence and uphold the rule of law, despite challenges posed by external interference. Judges are urged to uphold justice without yielding to pressure, with a collective endeavor to safeguard the judiciary's autonomy and integrity.