Justice Munib Akhtar, the senior puisne judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, was sworn in as the acting chief justice on Monday, June 23, 2025, in a ceremony held at the Supreme Court's Karachi Registry. The oath was administered by Justice Muhammad Shafi Siddiqui, marking the beginning of Justice Akhtar's temporary tenure while Chief Justice Yahya Afridi is abroad.
Reason for Acting Appointment
Chief Justice Yahya Afridi is scheduled to represent Pakistan at the International Legal Forum in Saint Petersburg, Russia, which will take place from June 24 to 26. According to a press release issued by the apex court, Justice Akhtar will perform the duties of the chief justice until Justice Afridi returns from his foreign visit. This arrangement follows established constitutional and judicial practice, as Justice Akhtar is the senior-most judge after the chief justice.
Oath-Taking Ceremony Details
The ceremony was attended by judges of the Supreme Court and the Federal Constitutional Court, along with senior court officials and members of the legal fraternity. The registrar of the Supreme Court conducted the proceedings. Following the oath, Justice Akhtar assumed the responsibilities of the office immediately.
Background of Chief Justice Yahya Afridi
Justice Yahya Afridi became the 30th chief justice of Pakistan on October 26, 2024, after being nominated by a special 12-member parliamentary committee following the passage of the 26th Constitutional Amendment. His tenure as chief justice is expected to continue until October 2027. During his absence, Justice Akhtar will oversee the judicial functions of the Supreme Court.
