PHC guides the way

This proactive approach will not only deter corrupt practices but also instill confidence in litigants, general public

Corruption has long been a persistent issue within the district judiciary that is eroding public confidence and compromising the credibility of the legal system. Instances of bribery, nepotism, favouritism and unethical practices have tainted the court’s image, undermining its effectiveness and fairness. As a vanguard of justice, the judiciary assumes a paramount role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring the integrity of legal proceedings. Therefore, such malpractices not only make justice elusive but also hinder the socio-economic progress of the nation.

The recent full court meeting of the Peshawar High Court (PHC), in which it decided to investigate all future anonymous complaints against judicial officers, has brought a glimmer of hope in the fight against corruption. The meeting served as a platform for judges to discuss and devise strategies to identify, investigate and prosecute corrupt individuals within the district judiciary. This has sent a powerful message, underscoring the judiciary’s commitment to combating corruption head-on. By introducing strict measures, such as financial audits, performance evaluations and an effective whistleblower protection framework, the PHC can further aim to create an environment where corruption finds no place to thrive. This proactive approach will not only deter corrupt practices but also instill confidence in litigants and the general public. However, it must be realised that curbing corruption requires a multi-faceted approach involving collaboration between districts and across provinces through a united front to root out the rot that has long been eroding the country’s justice system.

If PHC is able to devise a robust and effective implementation plan, it could have the potential to serve as a catalyst for the adoption of similar measures in other provinces. By fostering cooperation, sharing information and establishing channels for reporting corruption, district judiciaries across all provinces can work together towards building a more robust and corruption-free judicial system from the ground-up.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 19^th, 2023.

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