Ex-CJP Tassaduq Hussain Jillani Appointed to Head Probe Commission on IHC Judges’ Allegations

The commission’s mandate will entail a thorough investigation into the claims made by IHC judges in a letter.

ISLAMABAD: In a significant development, the federal cabinet has given its nod for the formation of an inquiry commission to investigate the allegations raised by judges of the Islamabad High Court (IHC). Former Chief Justice of Pakistan, Justice (retired) Tassaduq Hussain Jillani, has been appointed as the head of this commission, a decision approved during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The commission’s mandate will entail a thorough investigation into the claims made by IHC judges in a letter addressed to the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC). The judges, comprising Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kiyani, Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri, Justice Babar Sattar, Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir, and Justice Saman Fafat Imtiaz, expressed concerns over alleged interference by intelligence agencies in judicial matters.

Responding to the judges’ letter, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa underscored the judiciary’s independence and reaffirmed a firm stance against any executive meddling in judicial affairs. This commitment was reiterated during a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Supreme Court in Islamabad.

During the cabinet meeting, held virtually via Zoom with participation from most ministers online, the discussion centered on the judges’ letter, leading to the approval of the inquiry commission’s formation. The decision reflects the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring transparency in addressing grievances within the judiciary.

Read more: Reply to Letter by 6 judges

Despite initial delays due to the prime minister’s busy schedule, the cabinet convened to address the pressing issue, underscoring the importance of swift and decisive action in upholding the judiciary’s integrity and independence.

With Justice Tassaduq Hussain Jillani at the helm, the inquiry commission is poised to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, instilling confidence in the justice system and reinforcing democratic principles in Pakistan.