Najeem Sethi uncovers a brewing conflict within Pakistan’s judiciary. The conflict is marked by a division among the judges, with eight on one side and seven on the other, creating a scenario unfavourable to the current government.
The imbalance has sparked moves to alter the judicial dynamics, with significant developments anticipated soon.
Sethi reports that the government is poised to confront the Supreme Court as it pushes for a constitutional amendment to extend the retirement age of Grade 21 and 22 officials by three years. Such a change would affect the tenure of the Chief Justice and extend that of the Army Chief, highlighting the amendment’s broad implications.
Moreover, the amendment seeks to broaden the eligibility for the role of Chief Justice, allowing any judge to assume this position rather than limiting it to senior judges. This proposed shift suggests a strategic recalibration of judicial leadership criteria, potentially reshaping the judiciary’s future.
Sethi also points to Imran Khan’s significant and growing support among the Pakistani diaspora, particularly in the US and London, where eight out of ten Pakistanis back him—a testament to his enduring appeal and influence abroad.
