Bar leaders demand abolition of FCC

Senior legal figures and bar representatives on Friday launched a strong critique of the 26th and 27th constitutional amendments, arguing that the independence of the judiciary is being undermined and lawyers are being targeted.

Speaking to the media, senior lawyer Hamid Khan said a free bar is essential for an independent judiciary, adding that only an independent judiciary could ensure the supremacy of the Constitution.

He asserted that lawyers did not share the thinking of what he termed the "government group," and emphasized that legal professionals would continue to represent independent thought.

He claimed that cases had been registered against lawyers and arrests had taken place, calling it an attempt to suppress dissent. Criticizing the idea of parallel judicial structures, he stated that globally there was either a constitutional court or a supreme court, not both.

According to him, Pakistan's existing system centered around the Supreme Court was sufficient, and efforts would be made to abolish the constitutional court.

Hamid Khan also raised concerns over judicial appointments, alleging that junior lawyers from preferred chambers were being elevated as judges in the Lahore High Court (LHC).

He reiterated that issuing licenses to lawyers is the responsibility of the bar council, while suspensions fell under the domain of disciplinary committees.

Pakistan Bar Council member Shafqat Chauhan accused the government of rendering the judiciary ineffective through constitutional amendments.

He demanded the immediate withdrawal of the 26th and 27th amendments, arguing that the creation of a constitutional court served political objectives rather than institutional needs.

He further claimed that fundamental human rights had effectively been suspended and questioned where citizens would now seek justice.

"If such unlawful actions continue, public backlash is inevitable," he said.

Echoing similar concerns, Lahore High Court Bar Association President Babar Murtaza termed the establishment of the constitutional court "illegal".

He urged that petitions challenging the amendments be fixed for early hearing. He maintained that constitutional rights in the country had been curtailed.

Lahore High Court Bar Association President Babar Murtaza said that Karachi Bar elections were traditionally held in December but had been repeatedly delayed until May.

He termed the situation "regrettable" and raised serious concerns about the credibility of the process.

He alleged that fake votes were identified during the polling process and accused elements of the establishment of attempting to ensure the success of a favored candidate.