Senior legal figures and representatives of bar associations launched strong criticism on Friday of constitutional amendments 26 and 27, arguing that the independence of the judiciary is being undermined and lawyers are being attacked. Speaking to the media, lawyer Hamid Khan said that freedom of choice is essential for an independent judiciary, adding that only an independent judiciary could ensure the supremacy of the Constitution. He stated that the lawyers did not share the thinking of what he called the "government group," and emphasized that legal professionals would continue to represent independent thought. He claimed that cases had been registered against lawyers and arrests had occurred, calling it an attempt to suppress dissent. Criticizing the idea of parallel judicial structures, he stated that globally there was either a constitutional court or a supreme court, not both. According to him, the existing system in Pakistan centered on the Supreme Court is sufficient and efforts will be made to abolish the constitutional court. Hamid Khan also expressed concern over judicial appointments, alleging that young lawyers from preferential chambers were being elevated as judges in the Lahore High Court (LHC). He reiterated that licensing lawyers is the responsibility of the bar council, while suspensions are the responsibility of disciplinary committees. Pakistan Bar Council member Shafqat Chauhan accused the government of making the judiciary ineffective through constitutional amendments. He demanded the immediate withdrawal of amendments 26 and 27, arguing that the creation of a constitutional court responded to political objectives rather than institutional needs. He further stated that fundamental human rights had effectively been suspended and questioned where citizens would now seek justice.
"If such illegal actions continue, public reaction is inevitable," said. Echoing similar concerns, Lahore High Court Bar Association president Babar Murtaza termed the establishment of the constitutional court as "illegal". He urged that the petitions challenging the amendments be fixed for early hearing. He argued that constitutional rights had been restricted in the country. Lahore High Court Bar Association president Babar Murtaza said the Karachi Bar Association elections were traditionally held in December but had been repeatedly delayed to May. He described the situation "regrettable" and raised serious concerns about the credibility of the process. He alleged that false votes were identified during the electoral process and accused elements of the establishment of trying to ensure the success of a favorite candidate.
