Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar noted that proposals regarding the tenure of the Chief Justice of Pakistan are being circulated, and he expressed openness to considering these suggestions.
Tarar highlighted that, post the 18th Amendment, the parliamentary committee’s role in judge appointments has diminished to that of a mere rubber stamp. He emphasized that if any parliamentary party puts forth such a proposal, it is within their right to do so, as similar suggestions have been deliberated previously.
The minister also mentioned that the Prime Minister has instructed to propose a constitutional amendment regarding judge appointments. He stressed the importance of maintaining balance in the judge appointment process, noting that the 18th Amendment had also aimed at achieving such equilibrium.
“We will certainly engage in discussions with the opposition,” Tarar asserted. He clarified that the Ministry of Law had not received any information regarding the tenure of the Chief Justice.
“In numerous countries, the judiciary’s role in judge appointments is minimal,” he commented, highlighting that the PTI did not hold any reserved seat.
Meanwhile, the government has opted to revise the procedure for appointing judges in high courts, initiating work on a constitutional amendment accordingly. The Law Minister conveyed this during a Judicial Commission meeting presided over by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa.
A statement released following the Judicial Commission meeting revealed that the minister indicated the government’s intention to amend Article 175A, potentially altering the composition of the Judicial Commission.
Following the government’s stance, Justice Yahya Afridi suggested adjourning the meeting, a proposal that garnered unanimous agreement from all members.
The statement further outlined a consensus reached during the meeting: to proceed with the appointment of judges without delay, notwithstanding the government’s proposed amendments. Until the amendments are finalized, appointments to high court judgeships will adhere to the current legal framework.
