Key points
- IHC represents all of Pakistan: CJP
- Justice Afridi vows to uphold Constitution
- Sindh’s legal fraternity lauds transfers
ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Justice Yahya Afridi has lauded the president’s decision to appoint judges to the Islamabad High Court (IHC) from three provinces, stating that the court was not limited to any specific region but represented the entire country.
The top judge remarked the court symbolised the federation and affirmed that the recent transfer of judges was carried out in accordance with constitutional provisions.
Speaking at the oath-taking ceremony of the Press Association, Justice Afridi emphasised that the judges transferred to the IHC should be encouraged and appreciated for their role.
“Judges deserve fair opportunities”
Explaining his stance on the transfers, the chief justice clarified that judicial appointments and transfers were separate matters and should not be confused.
“I agreed to the transfer of judges because it was conducted under constitutional provisions. A Balochi-speaking judge and a Sindhi-speaking judge have joined the IHC, which is a positive step under Article 200. More judges from different provinces should also be included in Islamabad High Court.”
He stressed that judges from other provinces also deserve fair opportunities and that those transferred to the IHC were already serving as high court judges.
I agreed to the transfer of judges because it was conducted under constitutional provisions. A Balochi-speaking judge and a Sindhi-speaking judge have joined the IHC, which is a positive step under Article 200. More judges from different provinces should also be included in Islamabad High Court.” –Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Justice Yahya Afridi
He further highlighted the importance of a broad vision as Chief Justice, revealing that he hears 30 to 40 cases daily and aims to reduce the Supreme Court’s backlog. He also called for the appointment of more judges to distribute the workload effectively, as a few judges currently bear a disproportionate burden.
Merit
“Whenever I sense any personal interest in a case, I immediately recuse myself,” he added.
The CJP also said, “I will continue my efforts to engage with all judges. I am the Chief Justice of Pakistan, and I will also meet with high court judges to resolve their concerns. It will take time, but everything will eventually be fine.”
