ISLAMABAD:
The All-Pakistan Lawyers Action Committee (APLAC) has strongly urged the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) to immediately hold the process of appointments to the Supreme Judiciary.
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 under serious constitutional scrutiny as the 26th Amendment, which fundamentally changes the structure of judicial independence, was challenged in the Supreme Court.
“Going ahead with judicial appointments while the constitutional validity of the JCP is in question would not only undermine the sanctity of the judiciary but also cast a shadow over the credibility of its appointees,” read a statement issued on Sunday.
It noted that the JCP previously exercised caution in delaying appointments until rules governing the process were drawn up and insisted that the same principle should 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 endangering its independence, the committee warned.
“APLAC reaffirms its unwavering commitment to uphold the rule of law and protect the integrity of judicial institutions.”
The committee urged all stakeholders, including the JCP, to prioritize constitutional decency and refrain from actions that could further polarize the judiciary or compromise its impartiality.
“This is a critical moment for the legal community to stand united in defense of our Constitution and democratic values.”
“APLAC remains resolute in its demand that the appointment process be frozen pending the Supreme Court’s ruling on the validity of the 26th Amendment,” the committee asserted.
It is pertinent to note that conflicts within the legal community over the composition of the Supreme Court after the 26th Amendment show no signs of easing. The independent group, seen as a pro-government faction, has supported the change, with SCBA president Mian Mohammad Rauf Atta as a key member.
In contrast, APLAC, dominated by members of the Trade Group, has issued sharp criticism against the change. In recent weeks, the SCBA president has actively rebutted the committee’s criticisms on behalf of the independent group.
Analysts have warned that the government, meanwhile, appears to have deepened divisions within the legal fraternity over the controversial change.
