An Analysis of the Evidentiary Value and Implications of an Accomplice Witness in the Criminal Justice System of Pakistan

The study aims at analysis the legal frameworks which are associated with accomplice liability in order to the ethical issues regarding the accomplice testimony as well as the procedural protections granted to such witness. The main objective of this study is to compare and analysis the performance of Pakistan Legal System keeping an eye on justice and rights of the accused in the desired cases under the provision of Qanun-e-Shahadat Order, 1984 (QSO) and the Criminal Procedure Code, 1898 (CrPC). By using qualitative research approach to answer the research questions using IRAC method for the analysis of case judgments, this study finds out some of the challenges as including; the credibility of accomplice evidence, the need to corroborate the accomplices and the ethical issues that surround compelled or prompted cooperation. The results indicate the needs for amendments of legal frameworks regarding the accomplice witness. Therefore, the study makes a finding that whereas Pakistan’s legal system provides the basic necessary protection; there is a need to reform on corroboration provisions, education for judges, and procedural protections of fairness. Suggestions include increasing legal certitude, strengthening the legal supervision of judicial power and raising legal consciousness of people.