Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqir Declines Ad Hoc Judge Appointment in Supreme Court
Islamabad: Former Justice Maqbool Baqir has opted out of becoming an ad hoc judge in the Supreme Court, citing personal commitments and a busy schedule. In a statement, Baqir clarified that his decision not to join the Supreme Court bench as an ad hoc judge was based on personal reasons, despite Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa's well-intentioned efforts.
Acknowledging the Chief Justice's constitutional prerogative to appoint ad hoc judges, Baqir emphasized the pressing need to address the backlog of thousands of cases in the Supreme Court. He praised the competence and integrity of Justices Tariq Masood Khosa and Mazhar Alam Mian Khel, who have expressed readiness to serve as ad hoc judges.
Meanwhile, the appointment of ad hoc judges has sparked controversy, with opposition from Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gauhar. PTI has condemned the move as detrimental, announcing plans to challenge the decision before the Supreme Judicial Council.
The debate over ad hoc appointments continues to unfold amidst broader discussions on judicial efficiency and governance within Pakistan's highest court.
