Pakistani Judges Cannot Make Public Statements or Talk to Media Under New Rules

The Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) has approved significant amendments to the Code of Conduct for Judges, restricting their ability to interact with the media and reinforcing ethical boundaries for judicial officers across Pakistan.

The changes were finalized during a meeting of the council chaired by Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi, who presided over the session in his capacity as SJC head.

Under the revised code, judges are prohibited from making public statements or speaking to the media, particularly in matters that may raise legal or public controversies.

This marks a reversal from a previous amendment made during the tenure of former Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, which had allowed judges to publicly respond to allegations.

A key change introduced in Rule 5 requires judges to submit a written response to any allegation raised against them. This response must be provided to the designated committee responsible for evaluating complaints and managing institutional communication.

In addition to media restrictions, the amended code reiterates long-standing expectations around judicial impartiality and professional conduct. Judges are instructed to recuse themselves from cases where they have personal interests or relationships, and they are barred from forming business or financial ties that could compromise their independence.

The code also prohibits judges from becoming involved in political or public disputes, accepting financial benefits or gifts, or participating in unnecessary social, cultural, or political events. Judges must not accept invitations from foreign entities or attend private functions hosted by lawyers or individuals with vested interests.

The revised conduct rules emphasize the importance of efficiency and timely delivery of justice, urging judges to avoid delays and refrain from actions that undermine their constitutional oath. All decisions, the code stresses, must be made on merit, free from internal or external pressure.

In a separate development, the Supreme Judicial Council also reviewed complaints received against judges. Of the 73 complaints, 70 were dismissed, while three were approved for further proceedings.