Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar announced on Thursday that the federal government would address concerns raised by six judges of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) regarding alleged interference in judicial matters by the country’s intelligence agencies.
Tarar made the announcement during a press conference in Islamabad following a significant meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa.
Following the meeting, CJP Isa called for a second full court meeting within two days, indicating the gravity of the situation. This development comes after the apex court held a session to discuss allegations raised by six IHC judges regarding interference in judicial affairs by intelligence agencies.
In response to the concerns raised by the judges, the government has decided to present the letter before the federal cabinet for consideration. The Prime Minister aims to appoint a neutral, non-partisan retired legal figure to head an inquiry commission. The commission will be tasked with investigating the matter thoroughly and submitting a report in accordance with the law.
During the press conference, Minister Tarar emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring an impartial investigation into the allegations. He reiterated the Prime Minister’s stance that there would be no compromise on the independence of the judiciary.
Tarar further elaborated that the terms of reference for the inquiry commission would be developed in collaboration with the AGP and would encompass both current and past events within the purview of the law. However, he refrained from disclosing potential candidates to lead the commission, stating that the matter rests with the cabinet.
Addressing concerns about possible misconduct by the judges, Tarar emphasized that the commission would determine the validity of such claims.