Meeting chaired by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi approves three important judicial positions
JCP Finalises Major Appointments in the Higher Judiciary
The Judicial Commission of Pakistan approved significant appointments on Monday, confirming new Chief Justices for the Sindh and Balochistan High Courts and elevating a senior judge to the Supreme Court. The session was chaired by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Yahya Afridi and attended by senior members of the judicial commission.
Justice Zafar Ahmed Rajput Approved as Sindh High Court Chief Justice
The meeting opened with discussions on the next Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court. According to officials familiar with the proceedings, the commission examined three senior judges before arriving at a decision. After extensive consultation, the JCP approved the nomination of Justice Zafar Ahmed Rajput to lead the Sindh High Court.
Leadership Finalised for Balochistan High Court
The commission also reviewed nominees for the permanent Chief Justice of the Balochistan High Court. The candidates under consideration included Justice Kamran Khan Mulakhel, Justice Iqbal Ahmed Kansi, and Justice Shaukat Ali Derakhshani. After discussion, the Judicial Commission approved Justice Kamran Khan Mulakhel as the permanent Chief Justice.
Elevation to the Supreme Court Confirmed
The JCP further addressed the elevation of a senior judge to the Supreme Court. The commission approved Justice Mian Gul Hassan Aurangzeb of the Islamabad High Court, who had been serving as a temporary judge in the Supreme Court. His elevation to a permanent position completes the trio of major appointments finalised during the session.
Senior Judicial Figures Participated in the Session
The meeting included participation from Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court Aminuddin Khan, Justice Muneeb Akhtar, Justice Hassan Rizvi, and Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Aamir Farooq. All recommendations concerning key judicial positions were finalised without delay.
What Is the Significance and Why Do These Appointments Matter
Leadership in the higher judiciary shapes legal interpretation, administrative direction, and the efficiency of court systems. New Chief Justices can influence case prioritisation, institutional reforms, and the pace of justice delivery. The approval of these appointments therefore impacts not only legal circles but also public confidence in the judiciary.
How Were the Decisions Made and What Factors Were Considered
The Judicial Commission evaluated seniority, performance records, judicial temperament, and administrative capability before confirming the appointments. Sources indicated that internal consensus building played an important role, especially in selecting nominees for both provincial high courts.
Where Does the Process Move From Here
The next step is the approval of the parliamentary committee, which traditionally endorses JCP recommendations. Once approved, the appointed judges will formally assume their positions and begin duties that directly affect provincial judicial administration and Supreme Court jurisprudence.