Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice of Pakistan, Justice Yahiya Afridi, has expressed that the steadfastness of women judges has further strengthened the legal system in the country. On the occasion of International Women Judges’ Day, Justice Afridi issued a message acknowledging the invaluable contribution of women in the legal field, particularly the role of female judges, media reported.
He remarked that the increasing presence of women in the judiciary signifies not only gender equality but also reflects Pakistan’s progressive and moderate democracy, which seeks to recognise and utilise the talents of all citizens. The Chief Justice highlighted that women judges play a critical role in maintaining the rule of law and ensuring access to justice for all. He further stated that their participation in the judiciary fosters public trust and enhances the decision-making process by promoting inclusivity, fairness, and a broader perspective. Justice Afridi also commended the resilience, integrity, and dedication of women judges in upholding justice, strengthening the legal framework, and setting an exemplary standard for future generations.
He expressed pride in the progress made towards gender equality in the justice sector, reaffirming the judiciary’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for female lawyers to flourish, contribute effectively, and take on leadership roles.
In his concluding remarks, Justice Afridi urged everyone to work together to build a judicial system that reflects Pakistan’s societal diversity and resilience.
He emphasised that access to justice should be a real and tangible right for every citizen, not just a promise.
Earlier, Days after six judges were sworn-in as justices of the Supreme Court, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi has formed multiple administrative committees within the apex court.
The top judge has restructured the six-member Case Management Committee, led by him, which includes Justice Naeem Afghan, Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan, and Justice Shafi Siddiqui, along with the Additional registrar and IT director. The development comes days after Balochistan High Court (BHC) chief Justice Muhammad Hashim Khan Kakar, ex-Sindh High Court (SHC) chief Justice Muhammad Shafi Siddiqui, SHC senior puisne judge Salahuddin Panhwar, Peshawar High Court (PHC) judge Shakeel Ahmad, ex-Islamabad High Court (IHC) chief Justice Aamer Farooq, and ex-PHC chief Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim took oath as SC judges following the approval by President Asif Ali Zardari.
Meanwhile, Justice Miangul Hassan was sworn-in as an acting apex court judge.
In his latest administrative move, CJP Yahya has appointed several judges to oversee anti-terrorism courts in different provinces.
Justice Musarrat Hilali will supervise anti-terrorism courts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, whereas Justice Malik Shahzad will do so in Punjab, Justice Hashim Kakar in Balochistan, Justice Panhwar in Sindh, and Justice Aamer Farooq in Islamabad.
The SC Building Committee will now be headed by Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail, with Justice Siddiqui and Justice Aamer Farooq as members.
Meanwhile, CJP Afridi will personally oversee the IT Committee, with Justice Muhammad Ali and Justice Mian Gul Hassan as members.
