Pakistan to Appoint Liaison Officers in High Courts

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To enhance communication and streamline coordination in the justice sector, the Chief Justice of Pakistan has announced the appointment of liaison officers at high courts in all provinces. The move is designed to strengthen collaboration between bar associations and the Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan.

The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi. A press release issued on Friday stated that Justice Afridi shared insights from his recent visits to remote districts in all provinces. He observed that despite the availability of development funds, a lack of institutional coordination continues to delay progress in judicial infrastructure and reform efforts.

Justice Afridi emphasized the importance of involving bar associations in the planning and implementation of judicial initiatives, particularly those concerning the development of judicial complexes. To address the existing communication gap, the Law and Justice Commission will assign senior representatives as liaison officers in each high court.

These liaison officers will play a key role in facilitating engagement with local bar associations. Their responsibilities will include raising awareness of ongoing justice sector programs, identifying regional needs and priorities, and supporting the effective rollout of initiatives at the district level.

Bar associations will also be encouraged to submit their proposals for infrastructure and reform projects to District Development Committees. These committees, headed by District and Sessions Judges, will now work closely with both federal and provincial departments to evaluate these proposals. This process aims to prevent duplication of resources and improve the timely execution of development efforts.

Justice Afridi called on bar association leaders to take an active role in the reform process by mobilizing their members and offering constructive input. He also highlighted the importance of streamlining government assistance to bar associations to ensure it is used efficiently and has a lasting impact.

Furthermore, the Chief Justice urged provincial departments to cooperate closely with the newly appointed liaison officers. This collaboration, he said, is essential to fast-track project timelines and achieve meaningful improvements in justice delivery.

The initiative is part of a wider strategy to promote institutional collaboration, support grassroots engagement, and modernize the justice system across Pakistan. It reflects the judiciary’s commitment to making justice more accessible, efficient, and inclusive for citizens throughout the country.