ISLAMABAD – Incumbent Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa is all set to retire on October 26, 2024, with whole nation awaiting the name of his successor following recently approved 26th constitutional amendment.
As per the previous practice, the senior most judge of the Supreme Court was elevated as the Chief Justice. However, the latest constitutional amendment has changed the process as the new CJP will now be selected from among the three senior most judges of the apex court.
A 12-member special parliamentary committee will appoint the CJP with two-third majority. The committee will include eight members from the National Assembly and four from Senate. Members of the committee will be chosen from all political parties in both houses of the parliament on the basis of proportional representation.
The special parliamentary committee will propose name for the Chief Justice to the Prime Minister, who will advise the President to order his induction. No tribunal, court or authority will have the power to challenge the proposal made by the Prime Minister, the President or the Special Parliamentary Committee.
Three Senior Most Judges in SC
Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, 61, is the senior most judge in the apex court after CJP Isa. His retirement date is November 27, 2027. If he is elevated as chief justice he will serve at the position for a period of three years.
Justice Munib Akhtar, 60, would be the second most senior SC judge following the retirement of CJP Isa. His retirement is scheduled for 13 December 2028.
Justice Yahya Afridi is the third most senior judge in the top court. His retirement is scheduled for 22 January 2030.
The parliamentary committee will pick one from the three senior most judges as new chief justice of Pakistan.
26th Amendment: Process for appointment of Chief Justice of Pakistan explained
