ISLAMABAD: An important session of the Judicial Commission was held in Islamabad on Tuesday, chaired by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, to finalize appointments for chief justices in four major high courts across the country.
Balochistan High Court
Justice Rozi Khan has been approved as the new Chief Justice of the Balochistan High Court. His name was chosen after careful consideration of three senior judges — Justice Rozi Khan, Justice Kamran Khan, and Justice Iqbal — with the commission reaching a consensus in his favor.
Peshawar High Court
Justice Attique Shah has been appointed Chief Justice of the Peshawar High Court. His name was shortlisted alongside Justice Ejaz Anwar and Justice Arshad Ali before being approved by the commission.
Sindh High Court
Justice Muhammad Junaid Ghaffar has been confirmed as the permanent Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court. Being the most senior judge, his appointment was unanimously agreed upon.
Islamabad High Court
For the Islamabad High Court, the commission selected Justice Sarfraz Dogar as the new Chief Justice. Other contenders included Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani and Justice Gul Hasan Aurangzeb.
Concerns and Objections
During the meeting, Supreme Court Justice Mansoor Ali Shah raised objections, arguing that the issue of the 26th Constitutional Amendment should have been addressed before proceeding with the appointments. Justice Munib Akhtar backed the objection, which was also supported by two PTI representatives and the Law Minister from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Despite the reservations, the commission reaffirmed that the appointments were made through a transparent and constitutional process, with careful attention to seniority, performance, and legal qualifications of each nominee.
