ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has demanded that complaints against judges be heard in open court, stressing that judicial accountability must be transparent to restore public trust in the judiciary.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the SCBA said that secretive proceedings on such sensitive matters undermine confidence in the justice system. It noted that judges, being custodians of justice, must be held accountable through a process that is open, fair, and beyond reproach.
The association argued that keeping complaints behind closed doors creates unnecessary doubts and fuels speculation. “The public has a right to know how allegations of misconduct against judges are examined. Only open hearings can ensure transparency and maintain the dignity of the institution,” the statement read.
The SCBA also urged the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) to adopt procedures that balance judicial independence with accountability. It emphasized that a transparent mechanism would not only safeguard the reputation of honest judges but also strengthen democratic institutions in the country.
Legal experts believe the SCBA’s demand reflects growing concerns within the legal community about credibility and public perception of the judiciary. The call comes at a time when several judges have faced criticism in recent months over their conduct and decisions.
The association reiterated its commitment to supporting judicial independence, but underscored that accountability must not be compromised. It said that open hearings of complaints would set a precedent for fairness and uphold the principles of justice.
