Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa has emphasized the importance of transparency and fairness in the judicial system, stating that the era of predictable outcomes based on the composition of benches is over.
Addressing a full court reference marking the start of the new judicial year, Justice Isa highlighted significant reforms implemented during his tenure.
Justice Isa, in his address, acknowledged the lack of interaction among Supreme Court judges in the past, emphasizing the importance of the full court reference as a platform for collective decision-making.
He highlighted the decision to broadcast public interest cases live, allowing the public to directly observe the court’s proceedings and assess its transparency.
The Chief Justice also mentioned the establishment of a committee responsible for assigning cases to benches, replacing the previous system where the Chief Justice had sole authority over case allocation. He asserted that this change eliminates any potential for bias or influence in case distribution.
Justice Isa also spoke about the removal of unnecessary privileges enjoyed by the Chief Justice, including the use of a Mercedes Benz and a bulletproof Land Cruiser. He emphasized the need to utilize these resources for the benefit of the public, suggesting the sale of these vehicles and the purchase of public buses instead.
He further addressed the issue of “deputation” appointments, stating that all individuals on deputation have been sent back to their respective departments. This decision, he explained, was made to ensure the smooth functioning of the Supreme Court and the timely promotion of its staff.
Justice Isa also highlighted the efforts made to fill vacant positions within the Supreme Court, resulting in the promotion of 146 employees and the appointment of 78 new staff members.
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The Chief Justice expressed his commitment to ensuring swift resolution of cases and protecting the interests of the public. He urged the media to report accurately and responsibly, emphasizing the need for factual reporting rather than speculation.
He further emphasized the importance of judicial accountability, stating that if a law conflicts with fundamental rights, it must be declared null and void. He highlighted the Supreme Court’s commitment to accountability by citing the example of a Supreme Court judge being dismissed after facing allegations in open court. He also mentioned the landmark Margalla Hills National Park case, demonstrating the court’s commitment to environmental protection.
Justice Isa addressed the issue of peacocks kept at the Chief Justice’s residence, stating that they were released back into the wild. He emphasized that peacocks belong in the wild and should not be kept in captivity.
He also mentioned the formation of a case management committee, which includes Justices Mansoor Ali Shah and Munib Akhtar. Justice Shah has submitted his report on case management, while Justice Akhtar’s report is still pending.
Justice Isa highlighted the appointment of ad hoc judges to fill the vacancies in the Supreme Court. He stressed that case management alone is not sufficient and that judges must actively hear cases. He also announced the end of the practice of granting adjournments in the Supreme Court.
