Dual Chief Justices
ISLAMABAD: Vice Chairman of the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC), Farooq H. Naek, announced on Wednesday that Pakistan will have two chief justices following the establishment of a constitutional court.
This significant development is set to reshape the country’s judicial landscape, reflecting a more structured approach to the hierarchy of the judiciary.
According to Naek, the chief justice of the newly proposed constitutional court will serve a term of three years, with an age limit of 68 years for eligibility. This stipulation is aimed at ensuring a balance of experience and youthful perspective within the judiciary.
The constitutional court will operate alongside the Supreme Court of Pakistan, with one chief justice presiding over each institution.
This dual structure is intended to streamline judicial functions and enhance the efficacy of legal proceedings in the country.
Naek emphasized that performance evaluation will be a crucial aspect of the new framework.
Should the judges of the constitutional court not meet performance standards, recommendations for their removal or other disciplinary actions can be made to the Judicial Commission. This provision aims to maintain accountability and uphold the integrity of the judiciary.
In addition to these structural changes, Naek revealed that a committee will be formed to propose candidates for the position of chief justice of the constitutional court.
This committee will ensure that the selection process is transparent and inclusive, with representation from all four provinces of Pakistan.
This representation is particularly important in a country with diverse ethnic and regional backgrounds, as it will promote a more equitable judicial system.
Earlier in the week, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), expressed his party’s support for the establishment of the constitutional court.
While addressing the Balochistan High Court Bar Association, Zardari urged legal practitioners to recognize the importance of constitutional courts as mandated by the Constitution.
He stated, “If you don’t accept the constitutional courts, you should leave the practice,” underscoring the necessity for lawyers to adapt to evolving legal frameworks in Pakistan.
This initiative reflects a broader commitment to reforming the judicial system in Pakistan, aiming to enhance legal accountability, representation, and efficiency in the administration of justice.
The establishment of the constitutional court represents a forward-looking step in the evolution of Pakistan’s legal landscape, promising to address longstanding issues within the judiciary.
I am a dynamic professional, specializing in Peace and Conflict Studies, Conflict Management and Resolution, and International Relations. My expertise is particularly focused on South Asian Conflicts and the intricacies of the Indian Ocean and Asia Pacific Politics. With my skills as a Content Writer, I serve as a bridge between academia and the public, translating complex global issues into accessible narratives. My passion for fostering understanding and cooperation on the national and international stage drives me to make meaningful contributions to peace and global discourse.
