Islamabad, Former Senator and President of the PPP’s Human Rights Cell, Farhatullah Babar, has characterized the recent awakening in the Pakistani judiciary as a historic moment that presents a chance for substantial democratic reform. This comes as political forces are called to address the challenge of securing the autonomy of politics, the parliament, the judiciary, and the media from the unseen influences within a hybrid governance system.
According to Pakistan Peoples Party, Babar delivered these remarks at a seminar held by the Shaheed Bhutto Foundation in Islamabad. The event commemorated the anniversary of the execution of PPP’s founding Chairman Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in 1979.
He highlighted the Supreme Court’s March 6 ruling, which came 44 years after Bhutto’s assassination, and a recent letter from six Islamabad High Court judges as signals of the judiciary’s willingness to amend its legacy and chart a new course. Babar emphasized that this moment offers a critical opportunity for politicians, military officials, media, and the populace to realign their actions with democratic principles.
Babar pointed out the need for all sectors to engage in self-reflection and adjustment. He urged the military to refrain from political involvement, politicians to rely on the electorate rather than military support, and the media to maintain impartiality amidst political conflicts. Moreover, he called for the judiciary to adhere to constitutional interpretation rather than attempt to redraft it.
However, Babar expressed concern over the current political landscape, suggesting that politicians have not yet embraced this opportunity for self-correction. He criticized the practice of political parties granting Senate tickets to candidates with shadowy affiliations, as well as their failure to probe mysterious legislative amendments that could alter the country’s water distribution.
Furthermore, Babar advocated for the implementation of past court verdicts, such as the 2019 Faizabad dharna case and the 2012 Asghar Khan case, to hold accountable those who have breached their oaths of office. Emphasizing the significance of consequences for oath violators, even if the punishment is merely symbolic.
The seminar also featured talks by prominent figures including former KPK Governor Barrister Masood Kausar and former Election Commission Secretary Kanwar Dilshad, among others, who echoed the need for a more accountable and independent democratic framework in Pakistan.