Islamabad, February 11, 2025: Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi has referred a letter from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founding chairman Imran Khan to the constitutional committee of judges, stating that a constitutional bench will adjudicate the matter.
Speaking to journalists after a meeting with an International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation at the Supreme Court, Chief Justice Afridi confirmed that the letter, which invokes Article 184(3) of the Constitution—dealing with the Supreme Court’s original jurisdiction in public interest matters—raises significant legal questions.
“The judicial committee will review the contents of the letter and decide accordingly, as this falls within the purview of a constitutional bench,” he said.
Afridi’s remarks followed discussions with the IMF delegation, where key topics included judicial reforms, contract enforcement, property rights, and the legal environment affecting foreign investments.
“I assured the IMF officials that Pakistan’s judiciary operates independently under the Constitution and that ensuring fair and transparent legal proceedings remains our top priority,” he stated. He added that reforms are already underway to expedite commercial dispute resolution and improve the overall legal framework.
Addressing reports of internal differences among senior judges, Afridi downplayed concerns, stating, “There are certain habits that take time to change. These matters will be resolved in due course, but it is essential for the system to function smoothly.”
He also announced that two permanent benches would be dedicated to handling criminal cases, including death penalty appeals, from next week, aiming to expedite pending matters.
Regarding judicial appointments, Afridi reiterated his support for Justice Mian Gul Hassan Aurangzeb’s elevation to the Supreme Court, calling him a competent judge whose expertise is crucial for the judiciary. He emphasized that the Judicial Commission of Pakistan allows any member to propose names for elevation, and discussions on key appointments will continue in upcoming meetings.
Afridi highlighted the judiciary’s engagement with both the government and the opposition to seek input on judicial reforms.
“We have invited both sides to submit their proposals. The judiciary serves all, and reforms should reflect a broader consensus,” he noted.
He also confirmed receiving a letter from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, to which he responded through Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan, inviting the prime minister for a direct discussion on judicial matters.
Last month, Imran Khan submitted a 349-page letter to Chief Justice Afridi and Justice Aminuddin, raising concerns over human rights violations, electoral fraud, and the arrests of PTI workers.
