ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Justice Qazi Faez Isa says the general elections could have been marred by one decision of the Lahore High Court.
CJP Qazi Faez Isa, in a full court meeting held on the retirement of Justice Sardar Tariq Masood, said that Justice Tariq used to say that 40 to 50 cases should be marked in his court as he would deliver quickly.
Regarding the general election order, the Chief Justice said that he started the court the night before going on leave and heard the case against the LHC order.
A bench of three senior judges wanted to hear the case, but Justice Ijazul Ahsan refused to sit. He said another senior judge was included in the bench which announced the decision at 12:00 noon.
He said that Justice Sardar Tariq Masood could have become the Chief Justice of Lahore High Court but he could not.
The Chief Justice said that he had admitted that there were vacant judicial posts in the Supreme Court. He said changes to the rules governing the appointment of judges were being considered.
“It is time to have a separate secretariat of the Judicial Commission for the appointment of judges,” he added.
Justice Tariq stresses need for judges to remain fearless: A full court process was held to honor retired Supreme Court judge Justice Sardar Tariq Masood, during which Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa highlighted the jurist’s significant contribution and expressed gratitude for his services for the judiciary.
CJP Isa highlighted the key role that Justice Masood could play as the Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court and noted that the province suffered due to his absence in the position. However, he emphasized that the Supreme Court had benefited immensely from the presence of Justice Masood.
“Because of just one order of the Lahore High Court, the general elections could have been derailed again,” the CJP pointed out, adding that the apex court ruled against it when it held proceedings around midnight.
Responding to concerns raised about Justice Masood’s involvement in the military courts case, the CJP held them invalid, affirming Justice Masood’s integrity and commitment to upholding the rule of law.
In his speech, Justice Sardar Tariq Masood emphasized the importance of judicial independence and said it goes beyond mere separation from administration. He emphasized the need for judges to remain fearless in the face of powerful influences and warned against jeopardizing the independence of the judiciary to accommodate influential circles.
The full court application also featured speeches by the Attorney General for Pakistan Mansoor Usman Awan as well as the presidents of the Pakistan Bar Council and the Supreme Court Bar Association. They appreciated Justice Masood’s dedication and service to the judiciary and expressed appreciation for his invaluable contribution.
The event stood as a testimony to Justice Sardar Tariq Masood’s exemplary career and unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and integrity. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of legal professionals who uphold the rule of law and defend the independence of the judiciary in Pakistan.
