PTI leaders concerned at judicial appointments

PESHAWAR: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders on Tuesday expressed concerns over the recent judicial appointments.

Speaking to the media after appearing at the Peshawar High Court, they warned that public trust in the judiciary would erode if the country’s highest court was undermined.

PTI Senator Shibli Faraz said, “If there is no justice, people will lose faith in the courts. When institutions responsible for delivering justice become weak, citizens feel unsafe. In such circumstances, progress and prosperity cannot be achieved.”

He said the PTI would continue its political struggle over the issue of judicial appointments and that an alliance of opposition parties was in the making.

PTI leader Azam Swati alleged that bar associations were being influenced, stating that when bar associations are offered financial incentives, what would be the state of justice?

Meanwhile, PTI provincial president Junaid Akbar dismissed speculations about any rift between him and Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. “Minor issues should not be exaggerated into major differences,” he said. He highlighted the success of the Swabi rally, stating that it proved PTI workers were neither afraid nor tired.

“The party founder has expressed happiness over the Swabi rally and has sought reports from all regional presidents regarding the event. A final report will be submitted within five days.”

Junaid Akbar said the forces behind the incumbent federal government wanted the system to last for two years, which PTI did not accept. “This is why discussions are not progressing,” he added.

During his media talk, PTI leader Sher Afzal Marwat also criticized the judicial system, saying that PTI leadership was appearing before courts but the nation would eventually lose faith in the judiciary. He condemned those who voted for the 26th Constitutional Amendment, claiming that the nation would curse them. “The provincial government had announced that political cases would be withdrawn, yet no progress has been made. Even the judiciary is asking which cases the government intends to withdraw,” he added.

Of the party unity, Marwat asserted that there were no divisions within the PTI. “Junaid Akbar and I stood by PTI during tough times. If my presence bothers anyone, they should tell me directly,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, KP CM’s Adviser on Information and Public Relations, Barrister Muhammad Ali Saf, alleged the recent appointments of judges at the Supreme Court were unconstitutional. According to a handout, he said the appointments were a unilateral decision, which was unacceptable. He vowed to challenge this move through all available legal and constitutional means.

He also criticized the federal government after accusing it of undermining the independence of the judiciary through the 26th Constitutional Amendment.

Barrister Saif appealed to the lawyers community to unite against this unconstitutional move, which was aimed at damaging the reputation of higher judiciary.