The procedural framework for the commission is designed to facilitate its operations. A third of the commission’s members can convene a meeting, and decisions will be reached by a simple majority
By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has made a significant move by formally deciding to participate in the Judicial Commission of Pakistan, a body responsible for the appointment and oversight of judges across various courts, including the Supreme Court and High Courts. This decision emerged from a special meeting of the PTI’s political committee, which was informed about recent communications regarding the nomination of two members from the opposition to the commission.
The expansion of the Judicial Commission’s responsibilities marks a pivotal shift in its role, allowing it not only to appoint judges but also to monitor the performance of High Court judges and compile annual performance reports. This oversight function aims to enhance judicial accountability and ensure that judicial appointments are made transparently and based on merit. Additionally, the commission now has the authority to propose names for High Court judges and establish benches in both the Supreme Court and High Courts.
The procedural framework for the commission is designed to facilitate its operations. A third of the commission’s members can convene a meeting, and decisions will be reached by a simple majority. Interestingly, the validity of the commission’s decisions will not be affected by the absence of a member, ensuring that the body can function effectively even if some members are not present.
PTI’s political committee has unanimously approved the proposal to join the Judicial Commission, signaling a strategic alignment with the opposition. This move is anticipated to strengthen the party’s influence within the commission, as the two nominated members from the opposition will play a crucial role in its decision-making processes. However, the final selection of these nominees awaits confirmation from PTI’s founding chairman, Imran Khan. During the meeting, there was also a reaffirmation of the party’s stance regarding the controversial 26th constitutional amendment, indicating a continued commitment to uphold its principles amid the evolving political landscape.
The decision to engage with the Judicial Commission underscores PTI’s strategic maneuvering as it seeks to navigate the complexities of Pakistan’s political and judicial frameworks. By participating in this key institution, PTI aims to assert its influence over judicial appointments and oversight, potentially shaping the future of Pakistan’s judiciary in line with its governance agenda. The outcome of this engagement could have lasting implications for the judicial landscape in Pakistan, particularly as the country grapples with questions of judicial integrity, accountability, and reform.
