Chief Justice of Pakistan, Umar Ata Bandial, is preparing to conclude his tenure on September 16. In honor of his retirement, the Supreme Court Bar Association has scheduled a farewell dinner for him on September 13.
Justice Qazi Faez Isa, who is set to assume the role of the 28th chief justice of the Supreme Court, will take his oath of office on September 17. Justice Bandial assumed office on February 22, 2022, following the retirement of his predecessor, Gulzar Ahmed, on February 21.
According to the constitution, a chief justice retires upon reaching the age of 65, known as the age of superannuation. After retirement, the most senior judge automatically assumes the position of chief justice, and the president’s role is limited to issuing the appointment notification.
Justice Bandial served in this capacity for 19 months, and his successor, Justice Isa, will hold the position until October 25, 2024. Subsequently, Justice Ijazul Ahsan will take over as chief justice until August 4, 2025, followed by Justice Sajjad Ali Shah until November 26, 2027.
Justice Munib Akhtar will then serve as the top judge until December 13, 2028, and eventually, Justice Yahya Afridi is expected to hold this position until January 22, 2030. Notably, the retirement of Justice Afridi in 2030 is anticipated to mark a historic moment, as he may be succeeded by Justice Ayesha Malik, who would become Pakistan’s first woman chief justice