ISLAMABAD – Tensions are rising in Pakistan’s top court as concerns grow over attempts to weaken the country’s civilian justice system. In a powerful remark during a major court hearing on Monday, Supreme Court Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail expressed frustration over what he sees as a deepening crisis in the judiciary. He said if the government believes the civil court system has failed, then it should openly admit it—and send all cases to military courts instead, reported by The Express Tribune.
His statement came during a session of a seven-member bench of the Supreme Court, which is reviewing appeals from the government. These appeals challenge an earlier decision that had blocked military trials for civilians accused of rioting on May 9, 2023. Those riots followed the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and led to widespread protests and chaos.
Justice Mandokhail’s sharp words reflect growing concern among independent judges. Many fear that the current government—widely seen as influenced by the powerful military establishment—is trying to shift justice away from the civilian courts and into the hands of military tribunals. This, critics say, is an alarming step backward for democracy and the rule of law.
Attorney-General for Pakistan Mansoor Awan began his arguments in favor of the military trials and said he would speak on three main points. He also mentioned that he was still waiting for instructions from the government about whether those convicted in military courts would be given the right to appeal.
Justice Mandokhail pushed back, saying that matters of national policy should be decided by Parliament—not the courts. But he warned that if the government really thinks civilian courts no longer work, it should stop hiding behind policies and admit failure openly.
The lawyer for the Ministry of Defence, Khawaja Haris, had already laid out arguments about the May 9 events. However, many in the legal community believe these arguments are part of a broader effort to silence political dissent and place control of the justice system in military hands.
The court adjourned the hearing until May 5, but the storm inside the judiciary seems far from over.
