In a recent development, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa emphasized that any attempt to undermine the independence of the judiciary will not be tolerated. This statement came as the Supreme Court addressed allegations of interference in judicial matters by the country’s security apparatus.
Six judges from the Islamabad High Court (IHC) brought attention to attempts to pressure judges through the abduction and torture of their relatives, as well as secret surveillance in their homes. They highlighted these concerns in a letter to the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC).
To address these issues, a seven-member bench, led by CJP Isa, conducted a hearing on the matter. During the proceedings, it was revealed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had met with CJP Isa, leading to the decision to form an inquiry commission.
However, there were calls from lawyers and civil society members for the Supreme Court to take suo motu notice of the situation. This led to the formation of a seven-member bench to hear the case.
Throughout the hearing, CJP Isa emphasized the importance of upholding judicial independence and expressed his dissatisfaction with the pressure exerted on the judiciary. He also clarified the role of the judiciary in forming an inquiry commission.
The contents of the letter by the IHC judges were discussed during the hearing, highlighting instances of alleged interference and intimidation by intelligence officials. These included pressure on judges to influence case outcomes, as well as surveillance and harassment.
In response to the letter, the judges called for a judicial convention to address interference by intelligence officials and to safeguard judicial independence.
The hearing shed light on serious concerns regarding interference in judicial affairs and emphasized the need to protect the independence of the judiciary.