THE terrorist attack on Sessions Judge Abdul Hakeem Kakar in Mastung, which claimed his life along with that of his police gunman and left Additional Sessions Judge Tariq Lashari critically injured, deserves the strongest condemnation. More than an assault on individuals, it was a calculated attack on the judiciary and a direct challenge to the rule of law. An independent and fearless justice system is one of the state’s strongest defenses against terrorism, which is why the terrorists seek to intimidate those entrusted with upholding it.
Mastung has recently witnessed a number of attacks targeting civilians, security forces and public infrastructure, demonstrating that terrorist groups are attempting to create an atmosphere of fear and undermine normal life. In the days preceding the attack on judges, terrorists intercepted a civilian passenger bus in Mastung, opened indiscriminate fire and killed innocent passengers. The district also witnessed an IED attack targeting a military convoy and the destruction of a bridge in the Khad Kucha area. The targeting of judicial officers represents an especially dangerous dimension of this campaign. By attacking judges, terrorists seek to obstruct the administration of justice and intimidate those responsible for holding perpetrators accountable. The Mastung attack demonstrates why the government adopted enhanced security arrangements in terrorism trials, including protected proceedings through faceless courts, witness protection measures and other safeguards. These mechanisms are essential to preserve the administration of justice. Due process cannot function if those responsible for conducting trials are systematically targeted for murder. Ensuring the security of judges, prosecutors and all those involved in the justice system is indispensable to preserving the rule of law. We are confident that all necessary measures will be taken to protect the judiciary and other segments of society from BLA and other Indian backed terrorist proxies and to restore lasting peace and stability. Nothing should be allowed to stand in the way of holding terrorists and their facilitators accountable under the law.
