Pakistan: Lawyers' committee demands SC hearing on 26th amendment
All Pakistan Lawyers Action Committee Calls for Supreme Court Hearing on 26th Amendment
The All Pakistan Lawyers Action Committee (APLAC) has reiterated its demand for a full Supreme Court hearing on petitions challenging the 26th Amendment. Leaders from various bar councils emphasized that this demand is crucial for maintaining public trust in the judiciary's independence.
The APLAC criticized statements from the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and Sindh High Court Bar Association (SHCBA), labeling them as misleading. The APLAC clarified that its key signatories, including Abid S Zuberi and others, are elected representatives, countering claims that they are 'unelected'.
The APLAC stressed the importance of recognizing the legitimacy of these senior lawyers, as they represent the legal community's collective will. Undermining their legitimacy would challenge democratic principles upheld by bar associations.
The APLAC expressed regret over the SCBA's current leadership overlooking contributions from former presidents. They emphasized the need to preserve the tradition of respecting former leaders who championed the bar's principles.
The APLAC criticized the SCBA's support for an executive-driven extension of the constitutional bench, recalling past judicial crises caused by executive interference. They argued that the 26th Amendment's implementation violates judicial independence as per Article 175(3) of the Constitution.
SCBA President Mian Muhammad Rauf Atta condemned the APLAC's statement, calling it politically motivated and aimed at undermining the Judicial Commission's proceedings.
Doubts Revealed
All Pakistan Lawyers Action Committee
The All Pakistan Lawyers Action Committee (APLAC) is a group of lawyers in Pakistan who come together to discuss and take action on legal matters. They work to ensure that the legal system is fair and independent.
Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is the highest court in a country. In Pakistan, it is the top legal authority and makes important decisions on laws and justice.
26th Amendment
The 26th Amendment refers to a change or addition to the Constitution of Pakistan. Amendments are made to update or improve the laws of the country.
Judicial independence
Judicial independence means that judges and courts should make decisions based on the law, without being influenced by the government or other powerful groups. It is important for fairness in the legal system.
Supreme Court Bar Association
The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) is a group of lawyers who practice in the Supreme Court of Pakistan. They represent the interests of lawyers and work to improve the legal system.
Sindh High Court Bar Association
The Sindh High Court Bar Association (SHCBA) is a group of lawyers who practice in the Sindh High Court, which is a major court in the Sindh province of Pakistan. They focus on legal issues in that region.
Executive-driven decisions
Executive-driven decisions are choices made by the government or its leaders, rather than by independent judges or courts. Sometimes, these decisions can affect the fairness of the legal system.
Judicial crises
Judicial crises occur when there are serious problems or conflicts within the legal system, often involving disagreements between judges, lawyers, and the government. These crises can affect how justice is served.
Mian Muhammad Rauf Atta
Mian Muhammad Rauf Atta is the President of the Supreme Court Bar Association in Pakistan. He is a leader among lawyers and plays a role in legal discussions and decisions.
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