Chief Justice Peshawar High Court’s letter to the Chief Justice of Pakistan, complaining about being neglected in the appointment of judges

The Chief Justice of Peshawar High Court Muhammad Ibrahim Khan has written in a letter to the Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faiz Isa that there is nepotism and discrimination in the appointment of judges of the Supreme Court.

In his letter, the Chief Justice of Peshawar High Court addressed the Chief Justice of Pakistan and said that he wants to draw your attention to principle, merit and transparency. There are 4 vacancies of judges in the Supreme Court of Pakistan, Chief Justice of Balochistan High Court. Naeem Akhtar Afghan appointed as judge of Supreme Court. I am happy about the appointment of Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan but I am second in seniority, in principle my name should have been included in the list of judges of Supreme Court.

The letter states that I am a member of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan and the Supreme Judicial Council. In Badi-Nazar, there is nepotism and discrimination in the appointment of judges of the Supreme Court. I am disappointed to know that you appointed only one judge from your province of Balochistan. Why was I not considered suitable to be a judge of the Supreme Court?

The Chief Justice Peshawar High Court said that my seniority and credentials were ignored for appointment in the Supreme Court, I am second in seniority in the High Courts of Pakistan. It was expected that the vacancies in the Supreme Court would be filled soon to reduce the pending cases. Especially at a time when people in the country are yearning for justice. We get salary from taxpayers of Pakistan. People expect immediate appointments to vacant posts to ensure justice is delivered.

According to the text of the letter, Justice Mohammad Ibrahim Khan said that the single appointment in the Supreme Court has disturbed me. I thought a lot but I couldn’t find any solid reason. I have been serving the Judiciary for 31 years. I have rendered unwavering services to uplift the dignity of the Judiciary. Services for providing justice to people is a source of pride for me.

He said that the purpose of the letter is not to challenge the appointment of Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan. The purpose is whether the principles of merit, transparency and equality are taken into account in our institution. I am confident that my letter will not be used against me. You yourself have raised your voice against discretion, discrimination and sanctioned appointments by writing letters. I will continue to fulfill my constitutional responsibilities fully with the hope that Allah will give me the fruits of my hard work.

According to sources, Chief Justice of Peshawar High Court is retiring on April 14.