CJP Afridi Champions District Court Reforms

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Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi has emphasized the need to strengthen district courts as a foundational step toward judicial reform. Speaking at the Supreme Court Registry in Karachi, Justice Afridi highlighted that these courts are often the first and only point of contact between the public and the justice system.

The meeting included top judicial officials, such as registrars from the Supreme Court and Sindh High Court, as well as sessions judges. The focus was on streamlining legal processes and improving infrastructure in lower courts to enhance both efficiency and public access.

Justice Afridi pointed out that delays and inefficiencies at the district level contribute significantly to public dissatisfaction with the legal system. He underscored that district courts handle the majority of legal cases and are critical to restoring confidence in the judiciary. The proposed reforms aim to upgrade court facilities and reduce case backlogs, thereby improving case resolution times.

This marks a shift from earlier reform efforts that concentrated on the higher judiciary. Legal analysts say that focusing on grassroots institutions aligns with international best practices, where functional and responsive lower courts form the backbone of a trustworthy justice system.

The initiative also seeks to ease the burden on higher courts by ensuring more disputes are resolved at the initial stage. It promotes a more accessible and accountable legal process, particularly for ordinary citizens who often lack the resources to navigate the judicial hierarchy.

Successful implementation will depend on consistent funding, administrative cooperation, and monitoring. If achieved, the district court reforms could lay the groundwork for broader changes in Pakistan’s legal framework.

Justice Afridi’s initiative represents a measured, systemic approach to judicial development, without relying on sweeping policy changes. It reflects a practical understanding of the daily challenges faced by the public in seeking justice.

The coming months will show whether this local-first strategy can yield the intended improvements. However, the Chief Justice’s focus on empowering lower courts has been welcomed by legal professionals and observers as a realistic path toward meaningful reform.