Justice Sarfraz Dogar Warns Imaan Mazari of Contempt Proceedings

Islamabad High Court (IHC) Chief Justice Sarfraz Dogar warned lawyer and activist Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir of contempt proceedings.

The warning came after Mazari allegedly called him a “dictator” during a hearing. The clash occurred while Mazari represented Baloch Yakjehti Committee leader Mahrang Baloch in a petition to remove her name from the Exit Control List (ECL).

Chief Justice Dogar, upset by Mazari’s alleged remark, said, “Keep your mouth shut and stay respectful.” He refused to rule on the ECL petition, stating, “Ms. Mazari will go downstairs and call me a dictator.” Mazari defended her free speech, saying, “I’m here for a legal brief, not personally.” Dogar also addressed her husband, lawyer Hadi Ali Chatta, saying, “Explain it to her.” Deputy Attorney General Arshad Kayani noted that cabinet approval is needed for Baloch’s ECL case.

Read: Justice Sarfraz Dogar Assumes Role as Acting Chief Justice of IHC

The heated exchange highlights tensions over free speech in Pakistan’s judiciary. Mazari, a prominent rights activist, insisted her opinions shouldn’t affect her client’s case. The contempt threat could impact her legal work and spark debates on judicial conduct and expression limits.

Imaan Mazari’s contempt threat in 2025 raises questions about free speech and judicial authority in Pakistan. The case could set a precedent for how courts handle outspoken lawyers, affecting legal and activist communities. It also draws attention to the Baloch rights movement.