Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa has issued a detailed response to Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, addressing his concerns about the Practice and Procedure Committee. Justice Mansoor had earlier raised objections over the exclusion of Justice Munib Akhtar and refused to attend the committee’s meetings, also questioning the formation of the committee under a presidential ordinance.

In his reply, Chief Justice Isa explained that Justice Munib was excluded due to his stern conduct towards senior judges and his refusal to participate in meetings during the court’s summer vacation, citing unavailability. CJ Isa clarified that Justice Yahya Afridi had initially been invited to join the committee but excused himself, leading to Justice Aminuddin Khan’s inclusion instead.

Chief Justice Isa also noted that Justice Munib’s absence hindered the committee’s ability to address urgent cases, which must be heard within 14 days by law. He emphasized that the Chief Justice has the authority to decide committee appointments, and no judge can challenge this decision.

The exchange follows Justice Mansoor’s earlier objections, outlined in a three-page letter, where he criticised the amendments to the Supreme Court’s Practice and Procedure Ordinance and questioned the sudden reconstitution of the committee. Justice Mansoor expressed concerns over the removal of Justice Munib, calling the decision “unfortunate cherry-picking” and lacking transparency. He also highlighted the arbitrary inclusion of a less senior judge, describing it as undermining democratic principles.