Bar Associations Reject Supreme Court’s Decision on Ad Hoc Judges, Allege Conspiracy

Quetta:The Pakistan Bar Council, Balochistan Bar Council, and Balochistan High Court Bar Association have jointly rejected the recent decision of the Supreme Court regarding the appointment of ad hoc judges, citing it as part of a deliberate conspiracy to undermine the credibility of the apex court.

During a critical joint emergency session, the bar associations expressed concern over the lack of consensus among Supreme Court judges in deciding cases, particularly in politically sensitive matters, while ordinary citizens’ cases have languished for years awaiting adjudication.

In a statement, they highlighted that the country is currently facing a judicial crisis, which has raised questions over Parliament and political parties, alongside mounting scrutiny on the judiciary’s functioning. They criticized the institution’s reputation, already tarnished by controversial decisions made by retired judges in the past, now further exacerbated by the reappointment of these judges on ad hoc basis, which the Balochistan legal fraternity vehemently opposes.

The statement affirmed that seven members of the Pakistan Bar Council, along with associations from Sindh High Court Bar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa High Court Bar, and Karachi Bar Association, have unanimously rejected this decision, welcoming any challenge to its legality.

Moreover, the statement noted ongoing vacancies within the Supreme Court amidst Chief Justice’s upcoming retirement in October, emphasizing the critical need for a swift resolution by the incoming Chief Justice if ad hoc judges are deemed necessary.

This development underscores growing tensions within Pakistan’s legal circles, reflecting broader concerns over judicial integrity and the rule of law in the country.