Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar disclosed on Saturday that Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa has expressed no interest in extending his tenure as the top judge of the country. This revelation came during Tarar’s appearance on Geo News’ programme “Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath”.
During the interview, Tarar clarified the rumors surrounding CJP Isa’s potential extension. He recounted a conversation following a judicial commission meeting, where the Chief Justice, in the presence of the attorney general, firmly stated his disinterest in prolonging his tenure. “He [CJP Isa] mentioned that there were circulating rumors about his extension,” said Tarar. “I assured him that no such plans were in motion, which he appreciated.”
The law minister also highlighted ongoing discussions about pension reforms, which include a proposal to increase the retirement age by two years across all sectors. While considering this change, a suggestion was made to include judges in the reform, although Tarar did not specify the source of this suggestion.
Implementing this change, Tarar emphasized, would require a constitutional amendment. “But this doesn’t mean we necessarily want to grant an extension,” he added. He pointed out the broader context of retirement age policies, noting, “Times have changed and people are retired at the age of 60 and sent home. There is an opinion prevalent in the country that the retirement age should be extended by two years across the board. This could save hundreds of billions of rupees and ease economic pressures while retaining experienced officers.”
CJP Qazi Faez Isa was sworn in as the 29th Chief Justice of Pakistan on September 17, 2023, succeeding Umar Ata Bandial. However, Justice Isa’s tenure is notably brief, with his retirement slated for October 25, 2024.
Leave a Reply