"This article focuses on the 2007 judicial crisis in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. In particular, the ability of its legal profession to work collectively to protect the independence of the judiciary, and lead a popular movement towards the successful reinstatement of the country?s Chief Justice. The experience of Pakistan?s legal professionals in struggling for judicial independence, human rights and democratic values under General Musharaff?s military dictatorship is instructive in drawing parallels with the not incomparable situation in Burma. Why is it that Burma?s bar association and legal professionals have fallen silent, and have been unable to stand up and defend the rule of law and rights of their people? What lessons can be learnt from the Pakistani lawyers? experience and applied to the Burmese context?..."