LHC Chief Justice Predicts End to Establishment’s Interference in Judiciary

Lahore High Court (LHC) Chief Justice Malik Shehzad Ahmed Khan expressed optimism on Friday that the establishment’s interference in the judiciary will soon come to an end. His remarks were made during the opening ceremony of the judicial complex e-courts in Rawalpindi.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Justice Khan highlighted the persistent issue of the establishment’s involvement in judicial matters. He shared that they frequently receive letters alleging such interference. “Interference in the judiciary will have to be fought with faith that it will come to an end,” he asserted. The Chief Justice believes that the fear of God and a strong commitment to justice will eventually overcome these challenges.

Justice Khan expressed satisfaction that the judiciary is “fulfilling its responsibilities without any fear or greed.”

His comments come in the wake of a significant development in March when six Islamabad High Court (IHC) judges accused intelligence agencies of meddling in judicial affairs. They addressed a letter to Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, urging him to convene a judicial convention to address the issue.

The IHC judges — Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani, Justice Babar Sattar, Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir, Justice Tariq Mahmood Jehangiri, Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, and Justice Saman Rifat Imtiaz — emphasized that such interference undermines the independence of the judiciary.

Chief Justice Khan also discussed the judiciary’s internal challenges, particularly the delay in case verdicts. “Three generations [of a family] wait for verdicts and it [sometimes] takes 30 years,” he lamented. The delays are often due to the unavailability of witnesses, a problem he is consulting with high court judges to resolve.

Additionally, the Chief Justice addressed the difficulties faced by overseas Pakistanis in appearing before the court, noting that their properties in Pakistan are often stolen in their absence. He mentioned that legal issues related to e-courts are being reviewed, emphasizing that absconders will not be allowed to appear via video link. However, Pakistanis living abroad will be able to access court proceedings through video link by visiting their embassy.

In his speech, Justice Khan also pointed out that lawyers play a significant role in causing delays in the judicial process. His remarks highlight a need for systemic reforms to ensure timely justice.

The Chief Justice’s candid comments and proactive approach underline a critical phase for Pakistan’s judiciary as it seeks to maintain its independence and efficiency amidst external and internal pressures.