The federal government has unequivocally rejected rumors surrounding a purported constitutional amendment seeking to extend the tenure of the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) to a fixed three-year term, dismissing recent media reports on the matter. The denial was issued in response to assertions made by a private television news channel suggesting discussions about extending CJP Qazi Faez Isa’s term, who is slated to retire on October 25, 2024. The alleged proposal implied the necessity of a constitutional amendment and purported involvement of a committee already engaged in preparations for this purpose.
Federal Information Minister Attatullah Tarar firmly refuted the existence of any such proposal under the government’s consideration. He emphasized the absence of discussions or documentation supporting the claims, dismissing the reports as baseless speculation unworthy of attention. “Neither is any such proposal under consideration by the government nor any discussion has taken place in this regard,” he stated.
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Similarly, Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar condemned the dissemination of what he termed as “non-serious” and “fake news,” expressing reluctance to dignify such reports with a response. He underscored the impracticality of considering such proposals, particularly amid the incomplete parliamentary setup.
These developments arise against a backdrop of shifts within the judiciary, including the unexpected resignation of Justice Ijazul Ahsan, the third senior-most judge in the Supreme Court, triggering a succession chain. This chain ultimately benefits Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, positioning him to assume the role of Chief Justice following CJP Isa’s retirement.
While rumors of constitutional amendments may have ignited debate, the government’s staunch rebuttal underscores the importance of factual accuracy in public discourse, especially concerning critical matters such as judicial appointments and tenure.
