Bandial’s Farewell Dinner
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Bar Council has opted not to participate in the farewell dinner honoring the departing Chief Justice of Pakistan, Umar Ata Bandial. The PBC urged Justice Qazi Faez Isa to take action against judges who got unlawful promotions.
This decision stems from concerns regarding certain court rulings, the selection process of judges based on case outcomes, and the appointment of judges within the High Court and Supreme Court.
PBC has announced a boycott of the farewell dinner of CJP Bandial. He is scheduled to retire on Sept 16, (Saturday).
In a statement, PBC Vice Chairman Haroonur Rashid expressed his reservations. He remarked, “Many of Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial’s decisions are unlikely to be positively remembered in history. It appears that specific judges were chosen based on the outcomes of cases. Some preferred judges were appointed to high-ranking positions within the high court and Supreme Court.”
The statement highlights shortcomings and commendable aspects of the judicial system during the full-court reference. It was held to bid farewell to the outgoing Chief Justice of Pakistan.
However, it underscores that Chief Justice Bandial did not actively engage in the full-court reference process.
Meanwhile, Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial vacated his official residence two days before his retirement. He is scheduled to retire as the chief justice of the highest court on August 16. He has relocated to a house designated for retired judges.
Reports indicate that the nominated Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa will occupy the official residence later this week.
Isa will take the oath on September 17 and will depart for the ceremony from the chief justice’s residence, as per sources.
Bandial held office from February 2, 2022, serving as chief justice for one and a half years. Overall, Bandial took early departure from official residence before planned date.
