Lawyers Action Committee Launches Movement Against Judicial Appointments in Pakistan

Islamabad, Pakistan Jul 19, 2026 ALN: The Lawyers Action Committee (LAC) has taken a firm stance against the Judicial Commission of Pakistan’s (JCP) process for appointing judges to the country’s high courts, labeling it as a corrupt practice akin to “horse trading.” In a resolution adopted during a meeting in Islamabad, the committee expressed deep concerns over the integrity of the judicial appointment process. This move comes at a critical time when the public's trust in the judiciary is waning, and the implications of these developments could have far-reaching consequences for the rule of law in Pakistan.

The LAC's resolution reflects a growing sentiment among legal professionals and civil society regarding the need for a transparent and merit-based judicial appointment process. The phrase “horse trading” suggests that the appointments are not based on qualifications or judicial acumen but rather on political affiliations and backroom deals. This perception of corruption undermines the very foundation of the judiciary, which is expected to uphold justice and fairness. The integrity of the judicial system is paramount in any democratic society, and the LAC's actions may signify a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for judicial reform in Pakistan.

“The adverse fallout of the 26th and 27th constitutional amendments continues to wreak havoc on Pakistan’s justice system. The current process of appointing judges to the high courts is particularly horrific,” the committee stated. The reference to these constitutional amendments is significant; they were introduced to address various issues within the legal framework but have inadvertently contributed to the erosion of judicial independence. The amendments have been criticized for enabling political influence over judicial appointments, thereby compromising the impartiality of the courts.

In a significant move, the LAC has nominated veteran lawyer and former Supreme Court Bar Association president Ali Ahmed Kurd to lead a new movement aimed at addressing various pressing issues facing the country. Kurd, who has a history of activism, accepted the leadership role, stating, “I have accepted the leadership of the movement with a heavy heart at the insistence of my colleagues, particularly because the people of the country have lost faith in the justice system.” This statement underscores a broader crisis of confidence in the judiciary, as citizens increasingly feel that their rights are not protected under the current system.

Accompanied by senior lawyers including Hamid Khan, Salahuddin Ahmed, and Abid Shahid Zuberi, Kurd emphasized the need to mobilize public support, asserting that the citizens are the true stakeholders in the justice system. By positioning the public as stakeholders, the LAC aims to foster a sense of ownership among citizens regarding judicial reforms. This approach is crucial, as it seeks to bridge the gap between the legal community and the general populace, encouraging active participation in the movement for change.

The LAC announced that its first public meeting would take place in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with plans for an event in London to engage overseas Pakistanis on the movement's objectives. The choice of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is significant, as this region has faced numerous challenges, including security issues and political instability. By initiating the movement in this area, the LAC aims to draw attention to the specific grievances of the local population while also rallying support from the diaspora, which plays a vital role in advocating for Pakistan's interests abroad.

The resolution urged members of the JCP who “still possess a conscience” to abstain from participating in what it described as a “horse-trading exercise” and to voice their opposition to the ongoing farce of judicial appointments. This call to action reflects a desire for moral courage among those within the judicial system, urging them to prioritize justice over personal or political gain. The committee lamented that the process has devolved into a system where appointments are made based on political loyalty or financial influence rather than merit.

“When high court judges obtain their positions not on the basis of competence or integrity, but through their ability to maneuver among different groups and political parties within the Judicial Commission of Pakistan, the future of justice in Pakistan is surely doomed,” the resolution warned. This stark warning highlights the potential consequences of continued corruption within the judicial appointment process, suggesting that the rule of law may be at risk if these practices persist.

Furthermore, the committee criticized the interview process for judicial candidates, calling it a “mockery,” alleging that interviews are conducted in secrecy and that several JCP members have been excluded from the selection committee. This lack of transparency raises serious concerns about the fairness of the selection process and the qualifications of those appointed to the judiciary. The LAC's assertion that this has led to the selection of “blatantly unqualified candidates” points to a systemic issue that could have detrimental effects on the quality of justice delivered in the country.

In addition to the judicial appointment issues, the committee expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in Balochistan, where frequent terrorist attacks have resulted in numerous casualties. The LAC highlighted that the pursuit of a “hard state” has alienated large segments of the population, exacerbating resentment and insecurity. This acknowledgment of the broader socio-political context is crucial, as it underscores the interconnectedness of judicial integrity and national security. The lack of effective governance and justice in Balochistan contributes to a cycle of violence and instability that further complicates the region's challenges.

The resolution also called for the establishment of a fact-finding commission to address the grievances of troubled regions and to conduct public consultations on potential solutions. This proposal reflects a commitment to dialogue and engagement with affected communities, emphasizing the importance of inclusive decision-making in addressing the root causes of unrest. By advocating for a fact-finding commission, the LAC seeks to ensure that the voices of marginalized populations are heard and that their concerns are addressed in a meaningful way.

Moreover, the LAC condemned the ongoing detention of lawyers such as Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha, as well as political figures including former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The committee criticized the judiciary, legal fraternity, and political parties for their silence and complicity in the face of blatant injustices, warning that the current situation is “entirely unsustainable” and could lead to a catastrophic outcome for the nation. This condemnation highlights the precarious state of civil liberties in Pakistan and the potential for further erosion of democratic norms if these trends continue unchecked.

In a further display of solidarity, the LAC condemned attempts by the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) and provincial bar councils to obstruct bar association elections, demanding that all elections be conducted on time and in accordance with the law, with verification from the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). This insistence on transparency and adherence to legal frameworks is vital for maintaining the integrity of the legal profession and ensuring that bar associations remain accountable to their members.

Additionally, the committee called for the removal of advocates with fraudulent degrees and those holding multiple memberships in different bar associations from the rolls. This demand reflects a commitment to upholding professional standards within the legal community, as the presence of unqualified advocates can undermine public confidence in the legal system and its practitioners.

Finally, the LAC expressed support for the ongoing sit-in at Babarlo in Sindh, advocating for the rights of minorities and urging the Sindh government to address their legitimate grievances. This support for minority rights is indicative of the LAC's broader commitment to social justice and equity, recognizing that a fair and just legal system must also protect the rights of the most vulnerable members of society. By aligning itself with these causes, the LAC aims to position itself as a champion of justice not only for legal professionals but for all citizens of Pakistan.