ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi reiterated that the Supreme Court remains committed to constitutional boundaries and fully respects the administrative and judicial independence of the High Courts.
The Chief Justice was talking to the outgoing cabinet of the Supreme Court Bar Association, led by Rauf Atta, and the newly elected cabinet, headed by Haroon ur Rasheed, which called on him at the Supreme Court, here on Tuesday.
According to a statement issued by the SCBA secretary, Haroon-ur-Rashid asked the federal government to share the draft of the 27th constitutional amendment with the Association. The newly elected SCBA cabinet endorsed the urgent need for a Constitutional Court, which has been a longstanding demand of the legal fraternity to improve the efficiency of the judicial system and provide relief to the general litigants.
CJP Yahya Afridi reaffirms his commitment to judicial independence
President Rasheed proposed having equal representation of judges from all four provinces and the federal capital in the Constitutional Court. The new cabinet; however, expressed strong reservations over the news of the inclusion of executive magistrates in the upcoming amendment, saying this is a clear violation of the law and Constitution.
During the meeting, the Chief Justice briefed the delegation on institutional reforms aimed at strengthening access, transparency, and efficiency. He shared that Public Facilitation Centers have been established at the Principal Seat and all branch registries to offer a single-window service for litigants and lawyers, enabling timely access to information and efficient grievance redress.
He emphasised that the system will be continuously enhanced through feedback from stakeholders, including lawyers, litigants, and visitors, and noted that constructive suggestions will be welcomed at every stage.
Justice Yahya Afridi reaffirmed that cases are being fixed strictly as per policy available on the website, while applications for early hearing supported by urgency grounds are being considered on merit. He further stated that court processes are being modernised through technology to reduce procedural costs, streamline services, and facilitate members of the bar and litigants.
The Chief Justice assured the incoming cabinet that the Supreme Court will continue to maintain constructive and open engagement with the bar. He stated that concerns of the legal fraternity will receive due attention and expressed confidence that the cooperation between the bench and bar will continue.
The outgoing cabinet expressed appreciation for the Chief Justice’s support throughout their tenure. They noted that bar-related matters received timely attention and acknowledged the Chief Justice’s engagement with bar representatives nationwide, including visits to remote districts.
The newly elected cabinet affirmed its commitment to continued collaboration with the judiciary in advancing accessible and efficient justice delivery.
The Chief Justice congratulated the newly elected office bearers and acknowledged the cooperation and support extended by the outgoing cabinet. He noted that the bench and bar are integral parts of one justice system and emphasized that sustained coordination is essential for a timely and effective administration of justice.
At the end of the meeting, the Chief Justice of Pakistan presented shields to the outgoing cabinet members as a token of respect and goodwill gesture. They also reciprocated the gesture by presenting a memento on the occasion.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Comments
Comments are closed for this article.