Various high courts across the country are taking steps to protect the independence of the judiciary from undue interference by agencies. Chief Justice Malik Shehzad Ahmed Khan of the Lahore High Court (LHC) has called for a full court meeting on Monday to discuss the Supreme Court’s April 3 order regarding a suo motu case based on a letter from six Islamabad High Court (IHC) judges.
During the meeting, LHC judges will explore ways to safeguard judicial independence and establish mechanisms to hold accountable those who undermine it. Judges from the principal seat will attend the meeting, while those from the benches will participate via video link. Similarly, IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq has solicited proposals from all high court judges individually by Monday. Following the submission of these proposals, a decision will be made on whether to convene a full court meeting.
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Additionally, two judges from Islamabad sessions courts have been tasked with providing proposals on the same subject, with copies of the order distributed to relevant judges for consideration. Sindh High Court Chief Justice Aqeel Abbasi may also call for a full court meeting on this matter soon. All high courts and relevant stakeholders are expected to submit their proposals by April 25, as per the April 3 order.
Legal experts and organizations, including the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) and the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), have been requested to submit their proposals as well. While both organizations oppose interference in judicial functions, there are calls for the establishment of a commission comprising serving judges to identify those attempting to manipulate judicial proceedings.
Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Imran Khan plans to send a letter to Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, urging him not to preside over cases related to him and the PTI. Imran will also raise objections to potential government efforts to extend CJP Isa’s tenure through constitutional amendments.
