Chief Justice of Pakistan Asserts Judicial Independence, Proposes Inquiry Commission

Islamabad, Following serious allegations raised in a letter from six judges of the Islamabad High Court, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) initiated a series of meetings with high-level legal and government officials. This included discussions with the Attorney-General, Law Minister, and the Prime Minister to address and ensure the judiciary’s independence.

According to Press Information Department, the sequence of events began with a letter received by the CJP on 26 March 2024, prompting immediate action. The CJP held a lengthy meeting with the judges of the Islamabad High Court and later convened with key figures in the legal community and government. These discussions culminated in a full court meeting of the Supreme Court of Pakistan’s judges to deliberate on the concerns raised.

A notable outcome from these meetings was the proposal to establish an Inquiry Commission under the Pakistan Commissions of Inquiry Act, 2017, led by a retired judge of high integrity. This move, supported by the Prime Minister, aims to safeguard the judiciary’s independence. The Prime Minister’s assurance for legislative and administrative actions to reinforce judicial independence marked a significant agreement between the judiciary and the executive branch.