ISLAMABAD:
The All Pakistan Lawyers Action Committee (APLAC) has strongly urged the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) to immediately suspend the appointment process of senior judges.
The committee, representing the collective voice of senior lawyers and key stakeholders in the legal profession, warned that the legitimacy of the JCP itself was subject to increased constitutional scrutiny as the 26th Amendment, which fundamentally changes the structure of the judicial independence, was challenged in the Supreme Court.
“Making judicial appointments while the constitutional validity of the JCP is in question would not only undermine the sanctity of the judiciary, but would also cast a shadow over the credibility of its appointees,” read a statement released on Sunday. .
He noted that in the past the JCP had been cautious in postponing nominations until the rules governing the process were worked out, insisting that the same principle be applied now, given the far-reaching implications of the 26th Amendment .
Allowing appointments in such controversial circumstances risks eroding public confidence in the judiciary and jeopardizing its independence, the commission warned.
“APLAC reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the integrity of judicial institutions.”
The committee called on all stakeholders, including the JCP, to prioritize upholding the Constitution and refrain from any action that could further polarize the judiciary or compromise its impartiality.
“This is a critical time for the legal community to remain united in defense of our Constitution and democratic values.”
“APLAC remains committed to demanding that the nomination process be frozen until the Supreme Court renders its verdict on the validity of the 26th Amendment,” the committee said.
It is pertinent to note that the infighting within the legal community over the composition of the Supreme Court following the 26th Amendment shows no signs of abating. The Independent Group, considered a pro-government faction, supported the amendment, with SCBA president Mian Mohammad Rauf Atta as a key member.
On the other hand, APLAC, dominated by members of the Professional Group, expressed strong criticism against the amendment. In recent weeks, the SCBA president has actively rebutted the commission’s criticisms on behalf of the Independent Panel.
Analysts have warned that the government, meanwhile, appears to have succeeded in deepening divisions within the legal fraternity over the controversial amendment.
