Deadlock over Pakistani judges’ appointment likely to be resolved after positive talks between the Presidency and government.

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) warned of a delay in notifying and confirming high court judges. It asked the government to explain the constitutional implications of keeping the prime minister’s advice pending. Sources told Dawn that legal teams from the Presidency and the federal government had a positive meeting, and another meeting is likely in the next few days. The dispute centers on President Asif Ali Zardari’s failure to assent to a summary that the prime minister Shehbaz Sharif forwarded under Article 48 of the Constitution. The summary contains recommendations by the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) for 19 additional judges and the confirmation of five judges of the high courts. The JCP made its recommendations during meetings on July 20 and 21. Until the president has assented to the summary or returned it for reconsideration, the appointments remain in limbo. The IHC issued notices to President Zardari, the federal government and the attorney general, directing each to submit concise reports explaining the status and timing of the actions taken on the advice. The delay has already caused practical problems. Four additional judges in the Peshawar High Court, whose confirmation was recommended, left office when their terms expired on August 4. An additional judge in the Sindh High Court, whose term had been extended for six months, likewise left office after his term ended on July 29. An oath‑taking ceremony that had been scheduled for July 27 was postponed indefinitely. The IHC’s order will be heard the following day. Legal experts say the matter involves constitutional roles and authorities; unilateral action—even if court‑ordered—could be deemed improper.