Islamabad (Web Desk): The Supreme Court (SC) on Friday hosted a Full Court Reference to bid farewell to the outgoing Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa, who has served as the 29th CJP since September 17, 2023.
Justice Yahya Afridi is set to take oath as next CJP on Saturday.
The farewell event was broadcast live on the Supreme Court’s website and YouTube channel, attended by several justices, members of the legal community, and senior lawyers while five judges were notably absent, including Justices Munib Akhtar, Justice Ayesha Malik, Justice Athar Minallah, Justice Shahzad Ahmed, and Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, who is currently abroad.
In his address on the occasion, the chief justice-designate, Justice Yahya Afridi commended CJP Isa as a remarkable individual, expressing the deep sense of loss felt by his colleagues.
He shared light-hearted anecdotes about Justice Isa, highlighting both his kindness and his formidable temperament.
Attorney of Pakistan General Mansoor Usman Awan spoke highly of Justice Isa’s steadfast dedication to the Constitution and democratic principles, praising his historic rulings that championed fundamental rights, including significant decisions on peaceful protests.
He noted CJP Isa's initiatives, such as the live broadcasting of court cases and his role in facilitating democratic elections.
Addressing the event, while reflecting on his tenure, outgoing CJP Isa mentioned how quickly his life changed when he took on the role of Chief Justice of Balochistan Balochistan High Court (BHC) during a time of judicial challenges.
He stressed the importance of empowering local courts and ensuring justice reaches remote areas.
The ceremony underscored Justice Isa’s impactful contributions to the judiciary and his commitment to upholding the rule of law in Pakistan.