Chief Justice of Pakistan, Justice Yahya Afridi, met with a delegation from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Bar Association on Friday to discuss ongoing judicial reforms. The meeting was also attended by the Chief Justice of the Peshawar High Court and the Registrar of the Supreme Court. The purpose was to update the legal community on recent steps taken to improve transparency and efficiency within the judicial system.
During the briefing, Justice Afridi stated that, for the first time, members of the Bar have been included in the Law and Justice Commission. This move aims to make reforms more inclusive and transparent by actively involving legal professionals. According to him, the participation of lawyers ensures that changes reflect the real needs of the legal community and improve access to justice for the public.
Justice Afridi further explained that key decisions were recently taken by the National Judicial Policy-Making Committee. These include the formation of a special Response Committee on Enforced Disappearances, which will work closely with the High Courts. He said clear instructions have been issued to prevent any kind of external pressure on lower courts, ensuring independence at all judicial levels.
Moreover, the Chief Justice announced that the Supreme Court is working on launching a court-linked arbitration system. This system is designed to resolve disputes more quickly, reducing the burden on courts. Additionally, the judiciary has begun incorporating modern technology to make processes faster, more transparent, and more accessible for citizens and legal professionals alike.
Justice Afridi stressed that these reforms are part of a broader strategy to improve trust in the justice system. He highlighted the importance of collaboration between the judiciary and the legal community for long-term success. These updates were well received by the KP Bar delegation, who appreciated the efforts to make the system more inclusive and efficient.
As judicial reforms move forward, the active involvement of lawyers and the use of digital tools mark a new chapter for Pakistan’s legal system. The CJP emphasized that continuous dialogue and accountability will be key to achieving lasting change.