Pakistan Limits Chief Justice’s Term to 3 Years- On October 21, 2024, Pakistan passed the Constitution (26th Amendment) Act, limiting the Chief Justice’s term to three years. The amendment also set up a special commission to appoint the Chief Justice from the three senior-most judges of the Supreme Court. President Asif Ali Zardari approved the amendment after it was passed by both Houses of Parliament, despite strong opposition from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan. This change prevents Justice Masoor Ali Shah from succeeding the current Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, who will retire on October 25.
Legislative Process and Controversy
The amendment received a two-thirds majority vote in the Senate and was passed by the National Assembly with 225 votes out of 336. The opposition criticized this move, claiming it undermines the independence of the judiciary. PTI leaders argued that the ruling coalition used this legislation to block the senior-most judge from automatically becoming the Chief Justice.
Pakistan Government’s Explanation for Limits Chief Justice’s Term to 3 Years
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar defended the amendment, explaining that the new commission would help in faster justice delivery. The commission will include the Chief Justice, four senior-most judges, two senators, and two National Assembly members. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the move as a step towards national consensus.
Opposition’s Concerns
PTI leaders strongly opposed the amendment, stating that it compromises judicial independence. PTI Senator Ali Zafar alleged that political pressure was used to pass the law. Despite protests, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari from the Pakistan People’s Party supported the change, highlighting the ongoing tensions over judicial reforms.
Summary of Key Points
| Aspect | Details |
| New Amendment | Constitution (26th Amendment) Act, 2024 |
| Chief Justice’s Term | Limited to 3 years |
| Approval Date | October 21, 2024 |
| Opposition | Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) led by Imran Khan |
| Supporters | Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari |
| Key Aim | Establish special commission for Chief Justice appointment |
| Implication | Blocks senior-most judge from automatic succession |
Pakistan Limits Chief Justice’s Term to 3 Years- Summary
- Pakistan Limits Chief Justice’s Term to 3 Years: The new amendment sets a 3-year limit for the Chief Justice’s tenure.
- Approval and Opposition: Passed by Parliament, approved by President Zardari, with strong PTI opposition.
- New Appointment Commission: Includes top judges, lawmakers, and officials for transparent selection.
- Prime Minister’s View: PM Shehbaz Sharif sees it as a unifying national reform.
Ongoing Debate: PTI claims the amendment compromises the independence of the judiciary.
Also Read Latest Current Affairs 2024
The Constitution (26th Amendment) Act limits the Chief Justice’s term to 3 years and sets up a commission for appointing future Chief Justices.
The government believes it will enhance justice delivery by allowing a commission to select from the three senior-most judges.
The amendment was passed on October 21, 2024, after being approved by both Houses of Parliament.
The main opposition came from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, led by former PM Imran Khan, who claims it undermines judicial independence.
PM Sharif described it as a move towards national solidarity and faster justice delivery.
A special commission will now select the Chief Justice, replacing the automatic succession of the senior-most judge.
The commission, consisting of judges and lawmakers, will ensure transparent and efficient selection of the Chief Justice.
