Pakistan: Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi on Saturday said the entire judiciary was standing with judges to ensure they remained free from external pressure.
Addressing a conference in Islamabad, CJP Afridi said changes had been introduced to the judicial code of conduct to protect judges from external pressure and strengthen public confidence in the judiciary.
What did CJP Afridi say about judicial independence?
CJP Afridi described district courts as the backbone of the justice system and said empowering district judges and strengthening public trust remained key priorities.
He said judicial officers were performing their duties despite difficulties and urged all institutions to effectively discharge their responsibilities.
The chief justice also called for stronger coordination between district courts and high courts and urged young judges to focus on effective delivery of justice.
What measures are being taken for district courts?
CJP Afridi said facilities including solar power, internet, clean water and e-libraries were being provided to the district judiciary with support from provincial governments.
He said solar power, water and internet facilities had been provided in 18 districts of Balochistan, while facilities in the remaining districts were expected to be completed within a month.
He also said a decision had been taken to provide health insurance to judicial officers.
According to the chief justice, more than Rs3 billion had been released this year for improvements in the judiciary, compared with Rs900 million released over 20 years under the Access to Justice Programme.
CJP Afridi also paid tribute to judges who had lost their lives while performing their duties and said the rule of law remained a key requirement.