Islamabad, February 11, 2025: A delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), led by Mr. Joel Turkewitz, met with Chief Justice of Pakistan Mr. Justice Yahya Afridi at the Supreme Court of Pakistan to discuss ongoing judicial reforms and institutional transparency.
Welcoming the delegation, Chief Justice Afridi emphasized that Pakistan’s judiciary remains independent, and as the head of the institution, it is his responsibility to safeguard that independence. He clarified that while the judiciary does not typically engage directly with such missions, this meeting was arranged upon a request from the Finance Division. Given the nature of the interaction, he stated he would be cautious in his remarks and views.
Chief Justice Afridi provided an overview of key constitutional developments and judicial reforms, particularly regarding senior judicial appointments, judicial accountability, and the restructuring of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP). He highlighted the significance of integrating the judiciary with the parliamentary committee to create a more transparent and efficient judicial selection process.
He also informed the delegation that the Supreme Court is finalizing a critical agenda for the upcoming National Judicial (Policy Making) Committee (NJPMC) meeting, expected in the last week of February. The agenda is being shaped in consultation with key stakeholders, and he expressed openness to any suggestions from the IMF delegation.
Discussions further focused on judicial accountability mechanisms, with the Chief Justice stressing the need for a robust and fair system to address complaints against judges while ensuring judicial integrity and independence.
The IMF delegation acknowledged the judiciary’s crucial role in ensuring legal and institutional stability and commended the ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing governance, transparency, and accountability. The meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to strengthening judicial efficiency and upholding the rule of law, recognizing it as a cornerstone of economic and social progress.
The meeting was attended by senior judicial officials, including the Registrar, Supreme Court of Pakistan; Secretary, Supreme Judicial Council; Secretary, Judicial Commission of Pakistan; Secretary, Law & Justice Commission of Pakistan; and Director, Federal Judicial Academy.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Chief Justice Afridi presented a souvenir to the IMF delegation as a gesture of goodwill, while the delegation expressed their gratitude for the productive exchange.
