On Friday, the Supreme Court hosted a full court reference to honor outgoing Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa, reflecting on the significant moments of his tenure. Justice Isa, who took office as the 29th CJP on September 17, 2023, was joined by his wife, Sarina Isa, during his swearing-in ceremony.
Justice Yahya Afridi, selected by a newly formed Special Parliamentary Committee (SPC), is set to assume the role of the next CJP on Saturday. The farewell ceremony was live-streamed on the Supreme Court’s website and YouTube channel.
Notably absent from the event was Senior Puisne Judge Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, who was performing Umrah with his family. Consequently, the seats traditionally occupied by Justice Shah and Justice Munib Akhtar were filled by Justice Afridi and Justice Aminuddin Khan.
The gathering included 16 judges, among them Justices Jamal Khan Mandokhail, Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi, and Shahid Waheed. Other notable absentees included Justices Ayesha Malik, Athar Minallah, and Malik Shahzad Ahmad Khan.
During the ceremony, prominent figures such as Attorney-General for Pakistan Mansoor Usman Awan, Pakistan Bar Council Vice-Chairman Farooq H. Naek, and Supreme Court Bar Association President Shahzad Shaukat shared their thoughts on Justice Isa’s contributions.
Justice Afridi talks about Justice Issa’s personal conduct
In his remarks, CJP-designate Afridi highlighted Isa’s dual nature, describing him as both “a compassionate human being” and someone whose anger could be formidable. “If treated with kindness, he will respond in kind. But provoke him, and his wrath is unmatched,” Afridi noted, reflecting on his experiences while serving alongside Justice Isa.
Afridi expressed mixed emotions about Isa’s departure, acknowledging that while he would miss Isa’s humor and candidness, he was pleased to see him leave in good health. He commended Justice Isa’s commitment to women’s rights, emphasizing his dedication to safeguarding these rights with vigor.
Justice Afridi also recognized Isa’s willingness to seek help from competent counsel, a rarity among judges. He noted that while they had their differences, Isa was always open to discussion and persuasion.
The farewell lunch hosted by Justice Afridi was a personal affair, as he humorously revealed that Justice Isa had declined a government-funded dinner, deeming it too costly for the nation.
Justice Afridi’s vision for the judiciary
Looking ahead, Justice Afridi outlined his priorities for the Supreme Court, pledging to uphold the rule of law and the dignity of the judiciary. He emphasized the need for attention to the most remote districts of Pakistan, including areas like Jiwani in Balochistan and Sadiqabad in Punjab. Afridi stated that addressing the legal needs of these underserved areas would be a primary focus of his tenure.
As the Supreme Court transitions into a new chapter with Justice Afridi at the helm, the legacy of Justice Isa’s leadership will be remembered for its commitment to justice and equality.
