Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi delivered a key address to the Ghotki District Bar on Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of the judiciary in safeguarding the rights of citizens.
Speaking to a gathering of lawyers, Justice Afridi reiterated that the legal proceedings should always be centred on protecting the interests of the plaintiffs.
“My message is clear: we are here for the legal proceedings of the people,” Justice Afridi stated, stressing that both judges and lawyers have a pivotal role to play in defending the rights of those who seek justice.
He further emphasized the importance of ensuring that the plaintiff's concerns are taken seriously, noting that the constructive role of lawyers is crucial in upholding the integrity of the judicial system.
"The plaintiff is an important part of this judicial system; they should be taken care of," he added. The CJP also addressed the reservations of the legal community, assuring the bar members that he was committed to resolving their concerns.
“I have made a commitment to address your reservations, and I will definitely fulfil it,” he affirmed. Justice Afridi underlined the sanctity of the judiciary, urging that it must always be respected.
“Do not applaud the judges, for complacency spoils a person,” he warned, stressing that excessive praise could undermine the professionalism and effectiveness of the judiciary.
Protest over journalist’s killing
As the chief justice arrived in Ghotki, a group of protesters, including the children of slain journalist Nasrullah Gadani, staged a demonstration near the route of his visit. The protesters, holding placards, demanded that the chief justice take suo motu notice of Gadani's killing.
The protesters alleged that the police had failed to arrest those responsible for the murder, with some even accusing prominent political figures, including PPP MNA Khalid Lund and his son, of involvement in the incident. As the protestors gathered on the national highway, police intervened, halting their movement but allowing them to voice their grievances.
The protesters’ calls for swift justice reflected growing public frustration with the slow progress in the investigation of the journalist's murder. “The police are not arresting the killers. We demand that the chief justice take suo motu notice of the case,” one protester remarked.
