Justice (r) Maqbool Baqir has declined an offer to serve as an ad hoc judge in the Supreme Court, citing personal commitments. The Supreme Court had proposed appointing four retired judges as ad hoc judges to address a shortage of judges.

In a statement, Justice Baqir explained that he could not accept the position due to personal engagements. He emphasized that the appointment of ad hoc judges is constitutionally permissible and dismissed criticism surrounding the matter as unfounded.

Justice Baqir stated that he would have readily accepted the offer if not for his personal and professional obligations. He commended the two retired judges who have accepted the ad hoc judge positions.

Previously, on July 16, retired Justice Mushir Alam also declined the ad hoc judge position, informing the Judicial Commission through a letter. Justice Alam expressed disappointment over the social media campaign that followed his nomination, stating that he felt it was beyond his capacity to serve in the current circumstances.

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Justice Mushir Alam declines ad hoc work offer after social media campaign

Judicial Commission to consider appointment of 4 ad hoc judges

Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa had proposed the names of four retired judges for ad hoc appointments, including Justice Mishir Alam, Justice Maqbool Baqir, Justice Mazhar Alam Miankhel, and Justice Tariq Masood.

Justice Tariq Masood and Justice Mazhar Alam Miankhel have already agreed to serve as ad hoc judges in the Supreme Court.

Justice Maqbool Baqir reiterated that the Constitution allows the Chief Justice to appoint ad hoc judges, and this is not an unconstitutional act.

The Judicial Commission is scheduled to meet on July 19th to discuss the appointment of ad hoc judges in the Supreme Court.