Undermining justice:The perils of political interference in Pakistan Judicial System
Undermining Justice: The perils of Political Interference in Pakistan Judicial System
In the realm of democracy, an independent judiciary stands tall as the guardian of justice, ensuring equal protection of the law for all citizens. Impartial judicial system is the backbone of the nation's governance ensuring the rule of law and fundamental of Justice. However, for a very long time, I mean many decades, the judicial system of Pakistan is facing political interference which has caused severe risks to the democratic values of the world's 5th largest populated nation and undermines the public trust in the judiciary's ability to deliver a fair verdict.
Pakistan
has a troubling history of judicial activism, with notable instances like the
Molvi Tamizuddin case in 1954. In this case, Chief Justice Muhammad Munir and
four other judges controversially upheld the dissolution of the legislative
assembly by Governor General Ghulam Mohammad, leading to widespread concerns
about political interference in the judiciary.
A more recent example of political interference in the judicial system was witnessed on April 9, when the offices of the Islamabad High Court and Supreme Court were opened late at night, sparking widespread criticism. This move occurred amid speculation that then-Prime Minister Imran Khan might denotify the Ex-Chief of Army Staff aka Haji Sahib, leading to perceptions that it was influenced by the Establishment. The Supreme Court's intervention came after regular court hours, which was highly unusual and added to the concerns.
In Pakistan, several factors contribute to political interference in the judicial system. First, the appointment of judges often involves political influence, leading to biased decisions. Second, powerful politicians attempt to control judicial proceedings to protect their interests and avoid accountability. Additionally, inadequate checks and balances on executive powers create an environment conducive to interference. These factors collectively undermine the judiciary's independence and hinder its ability to deliver impartial justice.
It is the Internal strength of a judge which ensures the independence of the judiciary. Judges are not the employees of the government but of the state. They have taken oaths that they will ensure justice impartially and without any discrimination. They should not take the pressure of political forces. Pressure begins when you accept the pressure.
Political
interference in Pakistan's judicial system poses a grave threat to justice and
democracy. Historical instances and recent examples highlight the urgent need
to address this issue. To ensure an impartial judiciary, it is crucial
role in safeguarding the nation's democratic values. Only through concerted
efforts to eliminate Political interference in Pakistan's judicial system poses
a grave threat to justice and democracy. Historical instances and recent
examples highlight the urgent need to address this issue. To ensure an
impartial judiciary, it is crucial to establish transparent and non-political
procedures for appointing judges. Additionally, robust checks and balances on
executive powers can protect the judiciary's autonomy. Last but not least, by
upholding the principles of justice and resisting external pressures,
Pakistan's judiciary can regain public trust and reaffirm its political
interference can Pakistan's judicial system truly thrive and fulfill its duty
to provide equitable justice for all.
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