Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Justice Qazi Faez Isa addressed rumors about an extension of his tenure during a press interaction, clarifying his stance on the matter. In response to a reporter’s question regarding a recent statement made by Advisor to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah about the possibility of a tenure extension, Justice Isa explained the context of a recent meeting with government officials.
Justice Isa confirmed that he had met with Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar, Attorney General, and Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, but clarified that Rana Sanaullah was not present during the discussion. The Chief Justice shared that during the meeting, the Law Minister informed him of the government’s intention to extend the tenure of all Chief Justices. However, Justice Isa firmly rejected the notion of accepting any extension, stating, “I would not accept an extension in my tenure, even if all judges’ tenures were increased.” He further remarked, “I don’t know if I will be alive tomorrow,” emphasizing his belief in the natural course of judicial service without extensions.
This statement comes after a private news channel aired an interview with Advisor to the Prime Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination, Rana Sanaullah, in which he claimed that Justice Qazi Faez Isa had refused an individual extension but might accept one if it applied to all judges collectively. The Chief Justice’s remarks, however, have now clarified his firm stance against extending his tenure, irrespective of broader changes to the judiciary’s retirement age.
When asked about the delay in the hearing of the case involving the six judges’ letter, Justice Isa pointed to procedural reasons for the postponement. He explained that it is the committee’s responsibility to schedule the case for hearing and cited the poor health of Justice Musarrat Hilali as one reason why the bench had not yet been formed.
Justice Qazi Faez Isa’s comments underline his commitment to upholding the judiciary’s independence and resisting any perceived interference in judicial appointments or tenures. His outright rejection of an extension reflects a broader sentiment within the judiciary that seeks to maintain the integrity and standard procedures of judicial service without external influence or extensions.
The issue of extending the tenures of judges has been a topic of debate in recent months, with some advocating for reforms that would address the age limit for retirement. However, Justice Isa’s clear stance indicates that he believes in respecting the natural tenure limits currently in place, without exceptions for individual judges.
Justice Qazi Faez Isa assumed the office of Chief Justice of Pakistan in September 2023, following a long and distinguished judicial career. Known for his principled and independent judgments, he remains a key figure in Pakistan’s judiciary. His response to the rumors about a tenure extension demonstrates his commitment to maintaining the status quo and his respect for the established retirement process within the judiciary.
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