Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: Supreme Court of Pakistan’s senior puisne judge Justice Mansoor Ali Shah has remarked that since ‘he has done nothing wrong, why should he fear references filed against him.’
The comments came during an informal conversation with journalists after the oath-taking ceremony of seven newly appointed judges to the Supreme Court, media reported.
Justice Shah emphasised his faith, stating “Allah is the protector,” while responding to a question regarding rumours of references against him.
In the candid exchange, Justice Shah also mentioned that those questioning the work of judges should consider the case records, which are available on the Supreme Court’s website. He added that his work and the court’s decisions were public record, highlighting the efficiency in handling cases.
“There’s no personal animosity or conflict with anyone,” Justice Shah stated. “If the elephant in the room isn’t seen, what can we say?” He also emphasised the cordial relationships with other judges, stating they often met and shared tea together.
Earlier today, Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi administered the oath of office to six newly appointed judges of the Supreme Court during a formal ceremony.
The oath-taking ceremony saw the swearing-in of Justice Aamir Farooq, Justice Shafi Siddiqui, Justice Hashim Kakar, Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim, Justice Salahuddin, Justice Shakeel Ahmed, and ad hoc judge Justice Gul Hassan.
The event was attended by Supreme Court judges, the Attorney General, senior lawyers, journalists, judicial staff, as well as office-bearers of the Supreme Court Bar Association and the Pakistan Bar Council.
Separately, President Asif Ali Zardari will administer the oath to IHC’s acting chief justice Sarfaraz Dogar.
Earlier, The six newly appointed Supreme Court judges on Friday were administered oath by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Yahya Afridi at a ceremony in Islamabad.
The judges’ appointment was marred by controversy when the meeting of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) on Feb 10 when four members walked out, fervent opposition by the opposition PTI, and protests by the lawyer’s fraternity.
The meeting of the JCP was held despite the refusal of two Supreme Court judges— Justice Mansoor Ali Shah and Justice Munib Akhtar — as well as two PTI members — Barrister Ali Zafar and Barrister Gohar Ali Khan — who asked the chief justice to postpone the meeting amid reservations regarding the 26th Constitutional Amendment. The lawyers’ fraternity held protests outside the Supreme Court building as they held placards and raised slogans against the 26th Amendment. However, the commission, by a majority of its total membership, nominated the six judges and acting chief justices of the high courts.
