Leading legal associations reiterate their dedication to the rule of law and judicial independence

In a joint statement, the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) reaffirmed their support for judicial independence and the rule of law.

The statement claims that both bodies have continuously upheld the Constitution, institutional integrity, judicial freedom, and the supremacy of the law.

According to the statement, some political parties are trying to sow disarray and conflict within the legal profession in order to further their own objectives. These groups frequently make remarks meant to undermine the nation’s democratic system.

The unified statement vehemently denounced statements made by unelected officials and declared that their efforts will soon be unsuccessful. It also made clear that pronouncements on national issues can only be made by PBC and SCBA institutional organizations.

The statement emphasized that the legal community, which is united in its support of the rule of law and the supremacy of the Constitution, is not represented by any one person or group of people. Additionally, both chambers endorsed the 27th Constitutional Amendment, which would create a Constitutional Court.

Equal provincial representation under this amendment would improve the effectiveness of hearing political and constitutional arguments. The Supreme Court would schedule and determine matters in the public interest more quickly, and the bar bodies would continue to closely monitor the judge appointment process.

According to the joint statement, their separate General Houses would employ resolutions and decisions to voice their doubts and concerns as necessary.