The meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, scheduled for today, has garnered significant attention in the wake of recent revelations made by six judges of the Islamabad High Court (IHC). These judges accused intelligence agencies of exerting undue influence on judicial matters, sparking concern and calls for action within the legal community.
The meeting, which will also include Minister for Law Azam Nazeer Tarar and Attorney General for Pakistan Mansoor Awan, is expected to address the contents of the letter written by the IHC judges to the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC). In the letter, the judges alleged interference by intelligence agencies, particularly in the dismissal of former IHC senior puisne judge Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui.
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However, some legal experts have raised concerns about the optics of the meeting, suggesting that it may undermine the independence of the judiciary. They question whether the Chief Justice should have sought endorsement from all Supreme Court judges before engaging in discussions with the executive branch. Additionally, there are concerns about the timing of the meeting, especially amid claims of political interference in judicial proceedings.
Despite these reservations, there is recognition of the significance of the issues raised in the letter and the need for thorough investigation. Some legal experts believe that the matter should be addressed through a full-court hearing rather than through executive intervention or inquiries by the SJC.
The role of superior bars, such as the Islamabad High Court Bar Association, is also highlighted as crucial in advocating for the independence of the judiciary and supporting the judges who have raised these concerns.
Overall, the meeting between the Prime Minister and the Chief Justice marks a critical juncture in the ongoing debate over judicial independence and the alleged interference by intelligence agencies. The outcome of this meeting and any subsequent actions taken will likely have far-reaching implications for the judiciary and the rule of law in Pakistan.
