Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail of the Supreme Court of Pakistan criticized the government’s inaction regarding alleged interference in judicial matters. This critique came during a hearing conducted by a six-member bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, which resumed the suo motu hearing on the matter of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) judges’ letter accusing agencies of meddling in judicial affairs.
The six IHC judges had written to the Chief Justice, seeking guidance from the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) on the interference of intelligence agencies in judicial functions. The Supreme Court took suo motu notice of this letter and formed a seven-member bench to address the issue.
During the hearing, Attorney General for Pakistan Mansoor Awan, along with other representatives, appeared before the court. The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) submitted suggestions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the independence of the judiciary and calling for an inquiry into any interference in judicial matters.
The court discussed the seriousness of the allegations made by the judges and the need for an impartial investigation. Justice Minallah highlighted the trend of interference in judicial affairs, while Justice Mandokhail expressed concern over the government’s lack of action in addressing this interference.
Chief Justice Isa clarified the role of the Supreme Judicial Council and emphasized the judiciary’s commitment to maintaining its independence. The SCBA President underscored the importance of punishing those who interfere in judicial matters and outlined procedures for reporting such interference.
The hearing concluded with a consensus on the necessity of protecting the judiciary from external pressures and ensuring its autonomy in decision-making.
