Istanbul Human Rights Chief Voices Concerns Over Pakistan’s Judiciary Independence
The Human Rights chief Volker Turk of Istanbul expressed his concerns regarding Pakistan’s latest constitutional amendment, stating it could potentially undermine the independence of the judiciary. The amendments, adopted swiftly without broad consultation, have raised red flags in terms of international human rights law compliance. The recent passage of the 26th constitutional amendment by the Pakistani parliament has resulted in significant changes to the judiciary system.
A five-member constitutional bench will now hear political and constitutional cases, with the government appointing the chief justice for a three-year term based on a parliamentary committee’s recommendation. This move has prompted criticism from the International Commission of Jurists, labeling it as a blow to the judiciary’s independence. The amendments are believed to compromise the judiciary’s ability to act as a check against state excesses and protect human rights.
If the process unfolds smoothly, Justice Yahya Afridi is set to assume office as the new chief justice on Saturday. The legal community awaits further developments concerning the implications of these amendments.
Source: Anadolu Agency