In a significant development for Pakistan's legal system, the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) has expanded its bench with the addition of two new judges. The swearing-in ceremony marks another step in the operationalization of this newly established constitutional body that promises to reshape the country's judicial landscape.
Oath Ceremony Details
Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court, Amin-ud-Din Khan, administered the oath to Justice Rozi Khan Barrech and Justice Arshad Hussain Shah on Monday. This ceremony represents a continuation of the court's formation process following the enactment of the historic 27th Amendment.
Justice Amin holds the distinction of being the first Chief Justice of this newly constituted court. His appointment and leadership position him at the forefront of what many legal experts are calling a structural transformation in Pakistan's judiciary.
Progressive Court Establishment
The FCC's formation has been methodical and deliberate. Prior to Monday's ceremony, Chief Justice Amin had already sworn in several other judges at the Islamabad High Court, where the FCC has been formally established. These previously appointed judges include Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi, Justice Aamir Farooq, Justice Baqir Ali Najafi, and Justice Muhammad Karim Khan Agha.
The presidential notification issued on November 14 laid the groundwork for these appointments, officially naming six judges to the constitutional court. The complete list comprised Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi, Justice Aamer Farooq, Justice Ali Baqar Najafi, Justice Muhammad Karim Khan Agha, along with the two judges who just took their oaths.
Expanded Jurisdiction and Powers
The Federal Constitutional Court has been granted substantial authority that fundamentally alters Pakistan's judicial structure. One of the most significant powers transferred to the FCC is the ability to take suo motu notices, a crucial judicial tool previously exclusive to the Supreme Court.
Beyond this landmark power, the court possesses exclusive jurisdiction over several critical areas including constitutional interpretation, disputes between different levels of government, and references from the president or parliament. This comprehensive mandate positions the FCC as a central pillar in Pakistan's evolving constitutional framework.
The establishment of the Federal Constitutional Court represents one of the most substantial judicial reforms in recent Pakistani history. With its expanded bench and significant constitutional powers, the court is poised to play a pivotal role in interpreting the nation's foundational legal document and resolving intergovernmental disputes for years to come.
