LAHORE – Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) President Yasin Azad said independence of the parliament was vital for a strong democratic system.
Speaking at annual general meeting of the bar at Lahore registry on Wednesday, Azad said free and fair elections was the only way to peace and prosperity in country. He was of the view that the government had no option but to hold fair elections. “Electing rulers is the right of people which cannot be usurped,” he added.
During his tenure, Azad said, he completely supported the institution of judiciary and also criticised on some issues when felt it required. “Individuals come and go but institutions stay which should be strengthened,” he added.
The SCBA president also stressed upon the need of merit in appointment of judges of superior judiciary. He said lawyers belonged to particular groups should not be elevated to the bench but eligibility and skills should be the criteria to become a judge.
He said the bar did not stick to lawyer’s welfare projects only but also played its role in national issues. He pointed out that during the last year the bar organised international conferences, seminars and debates on many national level issues including Balochistan’s affairs.
Azad also thanked the Chief Justice of Pakistan, federal and Punjab governments for supporting the bar in deferent projects for welfare of legal fraternity. At the meeting the president got approved annual budget of the bar from the general house and also decisions of the incumbent cabinet.
SCBA Secretary Aslam Zar and other officer-bearers also spoke on the occasion. President of Indian Supreme Court Bar Association Pravin H Parekh and other lawyers from Indian also attended the meeting. A delegation of Indian lawyers was in the City for many days.