Islamabad: It was a historical day for the Supreme Court of Pakistan when three deserving high courts judges were promoted to the apex court. Pakistani Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa performed the formal swearing-in of Malik Shahzad Ahmad Khan, Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi, and Shahid Bilal Hassan to the Supreme Court.
Background and Official Announcement
This journey started on Monday with the confirmation from the Law Ministry on the presidential approval under Article 177 of the constitution. This approval paved way to the promotion of Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi from Sindh High Court, Justice Malik Shahzad Ahmad Khan from Lahore High Court and Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan from Lahore High Court to Supreme Court of Pakistan.
Information about the Oath Taking Ceremony
The swearing-in itself was relatively formal event conducted at the premises of the Supreme Court in Islamabad to capture the spirit and gravity of the process. Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, exercising the powers of the office of the Chief Justice, swore in the new judges in the presence of a number of senior lawyers, other dignitaries and members of the superior judiciary.
Judicial Commission of Pakistan recommendation
Even before the presidential approval, the Judicial Commission of Pakistan, led by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, carefully considered the candidates. This division showed the careful consideration of each nominee for the opportunity to become the chief justice and other members of the Supreme Court.
Controversies and Deliberations
The elevation process was also not devoid of its controversies and discussions. Out of nine members of the commission, four did not agree with the promotion of the Chief Justice of Lahore High Court to the Supreme Court. However, the majority decision prevailed whereby the appointment of Justice Malik Shahzad was deemed legal.
