Just shortly after legitimizing Sharia law in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) in Pakistan, the federal government, under the Zardari government has approved the creation of “mobile courts” which will rule on minor offences. This comes shortly after an agreement was reached between the federal government and Taleban militants, that would allow for the Swat Valley to be governed by Sharia (a strict interpretation of Islamic Holy Law). In exchange the Taleban has agreed to lay down its arms. The main argument put forward for the application of Sharia, other than that of self determination by the Taleban, is that of faster justice. However many have put forward arguments that the Taleban who has been aggressively gaining power and influence in the region are merely abusing the fears of an unstable government.

It appears that Zardari is catoring to these demands, however his political opponents, especially those in minor political parties are worried that these travelling tribunals will persecute them and merely act as hands to the federal government. The Pakistani press has given voice to the Human Rights Commision of Pakistan which is quoted as stating that, “Both the timing and manner of promulgating an ordinance to establish mobile courts raises grave concerns. There is no valid reason for the government choosing to introduce the measure through a presidential ordinance a day ahead of the current National Assembly session. Such brazen-faced tricks to bypass the parliament always invite doubts on the government’s bona fides.” Clearly an already destabilized region is being thrown into greater turmoil, by this decision. With a 5 day march planned from March 12-16 by many activist lawyers in the nation, things can only get more interesting.

 Print This   Email This