ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi has reiterated the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring the timely dispensation of justice, describing it as the institution’s foremost responsibility.
Strengthening the Bar-Bench Relationship
While addressing members of the Peshawar High Court Bar Association, CJP Afridi congratulated the newly elected cabinet and stressed the inseparable relationship between the bar and the bench. He urged young lawyers to uphold the traditions of their seniors, stating:
“Do not forget your seniors,” he advised, encouraging emerging legal professionals to follow in the footsteps of experienced lawyers and support legal reforms and infrastructure initiatives.
He also announced the construction of a new judicial complex in Peshawar to improve court facilities and streamline case handling processes.
Addressing Public Grievances and Judicial Challenges
Justice Afridi emphasized that the judiciary remains focused on resolving public complaints and pledged to continue enhancing facilities for both lawyers and judges. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the lower judiciary and affirmed:
“We will deliver justice to the people.”
He paid tribute to veteran lawyers such as Abdul Latif Afridi and Barrister Zahoor ul Haq, recognizing their significant contributions to Pakistan’s legal landscape.
Modernization and Case Backlog Concerns
Acting Chief Justice of the Peshawar High Court, Justice Syed Muhammad Atique Shah, also addressed the gathering. He praised the presence of the Chief Justice at the ceremony and highlighted the urgent need for embracing modern judicial tools.
Justice Shah revealed that over 236,000 cases are currently pending in the lower judiciary, with a significant portion in family courts. He urged legal bodies to actively collaborate to accelerate the resolution of these cases.
“The bar and judiciary must work together to ensure justice for the common man,” he stated.
Justice Shah also noted that junior lawyers are being trained at the Judicial Academy to better equip them for future responsibilities within the legal system.
