The Karachi Bar Association (KBA) solemnly observed April 9 as Black Day, commemorating the brutal incidents of April 9, 2008 in which Advocate Altaf Abbasi and four of his clients were tragically burnt alive in his office at Tahir Plaza, and Advocate Shehryar Sheri was fatally shot on M.A. Jinnah Road. The Malir Bar Association also faced a targeted attack, with its building set ablaze and vehicles torchedevents the KBA described as heinous acts of terror that continue to haunt the conscience of the legal community.
In a strongly worded press release, the KBA paid tribute to the martyred lawyers and vowed to continue their struggle for justice and the rule of law. The voice of justice cannot be silenced through fear or violence, said General Secretary Muhammad Ghulam Rehman Korai, reaffirming the communitys resolve.
The KBA also expressed grave concern over the ongoing genocide in Gaza, condemning the mass killing of innocent civilians and calling upon all Muslim countries to unite and take tangible steps in support of Palestinians. The association emphasized the need for global action against Zionist aggression and systemic violence.
A particularly serious note was struck in regard to the recent armed attack on KBA President Amir Nawaz Warraich on April 8, who was assaulted by six armed individuals. The KBA condemned the attack as a blatant assault on the entire legal fraternity and pledged that the community would not be intimidated.
In response to these crises, the KBA has unanimously decided to convene an All Pakistan Lawyers Convention to address critical challenges to justice, which include:
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The illegal construction of the 6 Canals on River Indus,
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The unconstitutional policies of Corporate Farming,
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The 26th Constitutional Amendment,
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The controversial PECA Amendment 2025, which curtails freedom of expression.
The Association announced that an ultimatum has been issued, with a deadline of April 12, 2025, for authorities to address these concerns. Should their demands remain unmet, the KBA warned of launching a full-scale movement.
“The movement has begun. We will not stop until we have achieved justice,” declared Korai. “We are united, we are unwavering. The lawyers of Pakistan are ready to risefor the people, for the Constitution, and for the future of this nation.”
