Imaan Mazari resigns from IHC Bar's missing persons committee
She criticises Bar for withdrawing petition on 26th constitutional amendment and judicial seniority, calls it betrayal of principles:
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Prominent human rights lawyer Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir has resigned from her position as Chairperson of the Enforced Disappearances Committee of the Islamabad High Court Bar Association (IHCBA), reported the 24NewsHD TV channel on Monday.
According to details, Mazari submitted her resignation to the president and secretary of the IHC Bar Association, citing deep disappointment over the bar's recent actions.
In her resignation letter, Mazari expressed her dismay over the IHCBA’s withdrawal of its petition filed in the Supreme Court concerning the 26th constitutional amendment and the seniority of judges, stating that the bar has abandoned its principled stance.
She further noted that despite being appointed to head the committee on enforced disappearances, she was denied access to even an official letterhead to issue statements—calling it a deliberate attempt to silence her advocacy.
"The bar’s retreat from its stance is condemnable, cowardly, and unfortunate," Mazari wrote. "I took up this position to advocate for the rule of law and the release of missing persons, but it’s now clear that the current IHCBA leadership lacks the courage to stand firm on such issues."
She added, "I cannot allow the current bar cabinet to use my name and reputation for appearances while refusing to act on human rights concerns. Therefore, my resignation should be considered final and accepted."
The IHCBA’s committee is meant to raise awareness on human rights, promote gender inclusion in the legal field, and represent cases of missing persons across the country.
Mazari, known for her legal defence of marginalised communities and victims of enforced disappearances, is widely respected both locally and internationally. She has notably represented Baloch students targeted in alleged abductions and racial profiling cases.
Born to Shireen Mazari and Tabish Hazir, Imaan is of Baloch ethnicity. She studied law at the University of Edinburgh and began her legal career during her academic years. In December 2023, she married fellow human rights lawyer Abdul Hadi.
According to the Asian Human Rights Commission, she remains one of the few lawyers in Pakistan who consistently challenges enforced disappearances, often confronting state institutions, including the military and security forces.
Reporter : Ehtisham Kiyani