CJP Isa Addresses Justice Shah’s Criticism and Committee Changes

Justice Mansoor Ali Shah criticized Chief Justice of Pakistan, Qazi Faez Isa, for what he called a “one-man show” and objected to Justice Muneeb Akhtar’s removal from the bench formation committee. CJP Isa, responding on Thursday, cited multiple reasons for replacing Justice Akhtar, including his neglect of a growing backlog of cases.

In a four-page letter dated September 25, CJP Isa noted that Justice Akhtar strongly resisted the Practice and Procedure Act, which aimed to diminish the Chief Justice’s control over the Supreme Court. He also pointed out that Justice Akhtar insisted on participating in committee meetings despite being on vacation and unavailable for court duties, demonstrating a lack of trust in the next senior judge.

CJP Isa criticized Justice Akhtar for not prioritizing urgent constitutional cases, violating statutory and constitutional obligations. He also mentioned Justice Akhtar’s selective handling of cases, his disrespect towards senior ad-hoc judges, and rude behavior towards a respected committee member. Additionally, he highlighted that Justice Akhtar often adjourned cases prematurely and issued stay orders without completing hearings, specifically referencing the audio leak case.

Addressing Justice Mansoor’s description of a “constitutional crisis,” CJP Isa questioned the usefulness of such a statement in the current context. He defended appointing Justice Aminuddin Khan to the committee, asserting his legal right to choose any judge and expressing disappointment over Justice Mansoor’s distrust in his colleagues.

Read: Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah Critiques Supreme Court Ordinance Amendments

CJP Isa urged Justice Mansoor to reassess his position and join the committee to ensure the Supreme Court’s efficient operation. He emphasized the collective duty to address the case backlog quickly.

He also refuted Justice Mansoor’s demand for Justice Akhtar’s reinstatement as contrary to the law and noted that Justice Yayha Afridi declined to join the committee—the letter concluded by dismissing accusations of undemocratic behaviour and cherry-picking against CJP Isa as unfounded.