The Pakistani government announced the formation of an inquiry commission to investigate allegations of interference by ISI and other state agencies in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) by state institutions. This decision follows a letter sent by six IHC judges to the Supreme Judicial Council detailing these concerns.
Former chief justice of Pakistan Tassaduq Hussain Jillani will lead the inquiry commission.
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar made the announcement at a press conference alongside Attorney General Mansoor Awan. Both emphasized the importance of all institutions operating within their designated boundaries.
“Institutional interference is never acceptable under any circumstances,” declared Minister Tarar.
Key Points:
-The inquiry commission will be formed under the Pakistan Commissions of Inquiry Act (1956).
-The commission’s focus will be on investigating the allegations raised in the IHC judges’ letter.
-Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa to discuss the matter.
-The Chief Justice convened a full-court meeting of the Supreme Court to address the letter.
-The commission’s composition and terms of reference will be finalized after cabinet consultation.
-A retired judge is likely to head the commission.
The government maintains there is no constitutional crisis, but acknowledges the seriousness of the allegations. Minister Tarar expressed his belief that such issues should be addressed promptly and transparently.
The announcement comes after widespread interest in the Prime Minister’s meeting with the Chief Justice. The government will present the details of the inquiry commission to the cabinet for approval.
Vindicated Judge Feels Isolated Despite Support in Recent Letter
Justice (retd.) Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui expresses mixed emotions following the Supreme Court’s verdict in his favor. While the decision vindicates his years-long struggle for judicial independence, he feels abandoned by his colleagues.
Siddiqui highlights a perceived social boycott from fellow judges at the Islamabad High Court (IHC) during the five years he faced dismissal. He claims none of them, including four of the six who recently wrote a letter to the Chief Justice, attended his daughter’s wedding despite invitations. He acknowledges Justice Gul Hassan Aurangzeb as the sole exception who maintained greetings.
March 29,2024
Source: The News Internation, Dawn, Express Tribune