Shibli Faraz Resigns from Judicial Commission of Pakistan Amid Legal Challenges

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Senator Shibli Faraz tendered his resignation as a member of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) on Wednesday, citing his entanglement in “false cases” that have hindered his ability to fulfill the role’s demanding responsibilities. His resignation follows a similar move by PTI leader Omar Ayub, who stepped down a day earlier.

Faraz Nominates Barrister Ali Zafar

In his resignation letter, Senator Faraz nominated Senator Barrister Ali Zafar to succeed him in the 13-member body, following directives from PTI’s founding chairman, Imran Khan.

Faraz expressed his desire to contribute to improving the judicial system but lamented the growing challenges posed by what he described as politically motivated legal cases.

“Despite my earnest efforts to address these allegations, a new wave of FIRs has been registered against me, further exacerbating my situation,” Faraz wrote, emphasizing that the circumstances made it impossible for him to dedicate the attention the role demands.

Judicial Commission of Pakistan

The JCP, chaired by the Chief Justice of Pakistan, is responsible for appointing judges to the Supreme Court, high courts, and the Federal Shariat Court. It also oversees the performance of high court judges and evaluates their annual performance.

The commission comprises senior judges, lawmakers, the federal law minister, the attorney general, and representatives from the Pakistan Bar Council. Faraz was nominated to the JCP last month, alongside three other lawmakers, following the 26th Constitutional Amendment.

Broader Context

Faraz’s resignation comes amid ongoing political and legal turmoil for PTI leaders. Just a day earlier, Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Omar Ayub also stepped down from the JCP, citing similar reasons related to legal pressures and FIRs filed against him.

These resignations highlight the challenges PTI representatives face as they navigate mounting legal and political pressures while attempting to maintain their positions in critical national institutions.