ISLAMABAD:
The Pakistan Lawyers Action Committee (APLAC) has strongly urged the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) to immediately suspend the process of appointments to the higher judiciary.
The committee, which represents the collective voice of senior lawyers and key stakeholders of the legal profession, warned that the legitimacy of the PCJ itself was under serious constitutional scrutiny as the 26th Amendment, which fundamentally alters the structure of judicial independence, was being questioned in the Supreme Court.
“Proceeding with judicial appointments while the constitutional validity of the JCP is in doubt would not only undermine the sanctity of the judiciary but would also cast a shadow over the credibility of its appointees,” read a statement issued on Sunday.
He noted that in the past, the JCP demonstrated caution in deferring appointments until rules governing the process were formulated, insisting that the same principle apply 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 committee 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 PCJ, to prioritize constitutional correctness 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 steadfast in its demand that the appointment process be frozen until the Supreme Court delivers its verdict on the validity of the 26th Amendment,” the committee stated.
It is pertinent to note that the infighting within the legal community over the composition of the Supreme Court after the 26th Amendment shows no signs of easing. The Independent Group, seen as a pro-government faction, backed the amendment, with SCBA president Mian Mohammad Rauf Atta as a key member.
In contrast, APLAC, dominated by members of the Professional Group, has issued harsh criticism against the amendment. In recent weeks, the SCBA president has actively refuted the committee’s criticism on behalf of the Independent Group.
Analysts have warned that, meanwhile, the government appears to have successfully deepened divisions within the legal fraternity over the controversial amendment.
