RFI Digital TV hosted a significant panel discussion on the indispensable role of an independent and impartial judiciary in maintaining the rule of law in a special context of the 77 years of Independence. The program, moderated by Chairman RFI, Mr Nusrat Mirza, brought together a distinguished group of legal experts to share their insights.
Nadeem Qureshi, Former Judge and member of the Supreme Court Bar, opened the discussion by reflecting on Pakistan’s early success with five-year development plans that significantly boosted various sectors. He noted that the shift toward temporary projects and delays in implementing key policies, particularly in taxation and international agreements like GATS and TRIPS, have impeded the country’s progress. Additionally, he pointed out the inefficiencies within the justice system caused by poor coordination between lawyers and courts.
Barrister Sarfraz Mutilo, General Secretary of the Sindh High Court Bar, followed by emphasizing the early contributions of legal leaders such as Liaquat Ali Khan and Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, who were instrumental in Pakistan’s development.
He also highlighted major projects like Pakistan Steel Mills, Pak Arab Refinery, and the BCCI international bank, which eventually collapsed due to conspiracies. Amir Nawaz Waraich, President of the Karachi Bar, then discussed how Pakistan’s strategic location has made it vulnerable to internal divisions and external conspiracies, weakening national unity.
He stressed that true development hinges not just on economic resources but on the strict enforcement of the rule of law and the effective use of the nation’s substantial capital.
Zafar Imam, Member of the Sindh High Court Bar, contributed by underscoring the significant sacrifices made by lawyers in defending the rule of law in Pakistan, despite the losses they have endured. He cited the recent rejection by bar associations of a Supreme Court decision concerning the Qadiani community as an example of the ongoing struggle for legal supremacy.
Khalid Iqbal, Advocate at the Supreme Court Bar, argued that global policies imposed after Pakistan’s independence were designed to disrupt its progress, leaving the country entangled in internal challenges. He highlighted that, despite gaining independence alongside India, Pakistan has faced continuous scrutiny and interference from world powers.
Mian Rauf Atta, Advocate at the Supreme Court Bar, pointed out that bureaucracy and repeated military interventions have repeatedly undermined constitutional rule and hindered national progress. He highlighted the pervasive corruption that stretches from grassroots to leadership levels, contributing to the ongoing disorder.
Finally, Barrister Zafar Jawad, Member of the Supreme Court Bar, stressed the critical importance of respecting public opinion and empowering citizens to freely elect their representatives. He warned that interference in the democratic process undermines trust in the system, emphasizing the need for a balanced relationship between the Legislature, Administration, and Judiciary to prevent further issues.
