Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) spoke to the Islamabad High Court Bar Association, shedding light on critical issues facing the country’s judicial system, including the missing persons, constitutional amendments, and the need for judicial independence.
In his speech, Justice Kayani emphasized that the system is facing many problems, including missing persons, stating, "I want every Pakistani to believe their rights are protected."
He reiterated that all actions must remain within the constitutional framework, asserting, "Nothing outside the constitutional framework is acceptable."
One of the key points of his address was the discussion surrounding the 26th amendment, which he revealed was brought forward based on a letter. While he chose not to discuss the letter again, Justice Kayani noted, "A letter changed the entire system of the country."
He announced that the petitions against the 26th amendment would be heard in the full court, adding, "This issue will be resolved for the survival of the people of Pakistan and the system."
Justice Kayani also stressed the need for an independent judiciary, stating, "We need independent judges who will maintain the sanctity of the judiciary. People's hope today lies in the judiciary, parliament, and media."
Justice Kayani revealed that he had requested the chief justice of the IHC to recall judges appointed on deputation to the Islamabad High Court. "We will soon send back the judges who came on deputation from outside Islamabad and appoint our own judges from here," he declared.
He further emphasized that future judicial appointments would also be made from within Islamabad, addressing concerns that external appointments undermine the rights of local judges.
Justice Kayani also called for a strong and independent media, stating, "We need a strong media that puts everything in front of the people. We also need a strong bar from which judges can be selected."
He praised the Islamabad High Court Bar Council and Association for their commendable struggle and urged the federal government and the Ministry of Law to expedite the construction of the District Bar Complex. "It is a long-standing desire that the project should be completed by 2025," he said, urging authorities to prioritize the matter without the need for further appeals.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by the country, Justice Kayani remarked, "The country has been facing such stages in its history."
He urged citizens not to lose faith in institutions, even in the face of constitutional amendments, stating, "Even if there is a 26th Constitutional Amendment, you cannot be disappointed with the institutions. Only with the correct interpretation of the law can we see Pakistan on the path of progress."
In a personal note, Justice Kayani shared advice from his mother, saying, "My mother had said that if someone praises you, do not become arrogant." He humbly added, "I do not consider myself worthy of the words of praise spoken about me."
Justice Kayani concluded his address by emphasizing the importance of unity and dialogue, urging the bar members to foster camaraderie. "Keep inviting people for tea, invite them for food so that resentments will reduce," he said, highlighting the need for harmony within the legal community.
