Justice Yahya Afridi Appointed as Pakistan’s 30th Chief Justice

In a significant development for Pakistan’s judicial system, President Asif Ali Zardari has officially appointed Justice Yahya Afridi as the 30th Chief Justice of Pakistan. This historic appointment will take effect from October 26, 2024, marking a new chapter in the country’s legal landscape. Justice Afridi, a Supreme Court judge known for his integrity and experience, will serve for a three-year tenure.

A New Era in Pakistan’s Judiciary

Justice Afridi’s appointment was confirmed through a press release from the President’s House and followed an extensive deliberation process by a special parliamentary committee. The decision was made in line with the powers vested in the president under Articles 175 A (3), 177, and 179 of the Constitution. This committee, composed of members from both the National Assembly and the Senate, was the first of its kind in Pakistan’s history. The committee thoroughly examined the eligibility of three senior Supreme Court judges—Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Munib Akhtar, and Justice Yahya Afridi—before concluding that Justice Afridi would be the ideal candidate.

The Role of the Special Parliamentary Committee

The committee was formed under the 26th constitutional amendment, a crucial change that now empowers the Special Parliamentary Committee to recommend a Chief Justice from among the three most senior judges, as opposed to automatically selecting the most senior judge. This shift brings a more democratic element to the appointment process, allowing for greater scrutiny and debate over such an important decision.

The committee members included prominent political figures such as Khawaja Asif, Ahsan Iqbal, Shaista Pervaiz Malik, Raja Pervez Ashraf, Syed Naveed Qamar, and many others. Despite the absence of members from the PTI and Sunni Ittehad Council, the committee proceeded and finalized its decision after intense discussions that extended late into the night.

A Momentous Occasion

Justice Afridi’s appointment comes as Justice Qazi Faez Isa, the outgoing Chief Justice, is set to retire on October 25, 2024. Justice Afridi will take his oath of office on October 26, a ceremony that will be closely watched across the country. His ascension to this prestigious role is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the judiciary, while also ensuring the continuity of legal reforms and upholding the principles of justice in Pakistan.

The legal fraternity and the general public alike are optimistic about the leadership Justice Afridi will provide in his new role. His years of service in the judiciary, coupled with his fair and balanced approach, make him a respected figure in legal circles.