Two judges of the Islamabad High Court have suggested they may not be available to hear cases from next month. Their remarks appeared during separate case hearings and came amid rising speculation about expected judicial transfers under the 27th Constitutional Amendment. Consequently, the development has intensified discussions about potential shifts within the judiciary.
Remarks During Court Hearings Spark Attention
Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani commented on the matter while hearing a case related to a private company. When a lawyer requested the final arguments be set for the first week of December, the judge offered an unexpected response. He stated that another judge would likely be handling the matter at that time.
The lawyer reacted with concern and asked him not to say things that caused unease. However, Justice Kayani replied calmly and stated that he was comfortable with the situation. When the lawyer expressed that they still had much to learn from him, the judge again maintained that there was no problem.
A similar moment occurred a day earlier. Justice Saman Rafat Imtiaz told a counsel that her bench might not be available in December. She made the remark after the lawyer sought an adjournment for the following week. Therefore, both comments fueled expectations that changes may occur soon.
Background of Earlier Opposition to Judicial Transfers
Earlier this year, five judges of the Islamabad High Court raised strong concerns regarding the transfer of the sitting Chief Justice to the court. Justice Kayani and Justice Imtiaz were among those who questioned the move. Their position highlighted ongoing debates within judicial circles regarding autonomy and consent in transfers.
27th Constitutional Amendment Alters Transfer Powers
The recently approved 27th Constitutional Amendment now grants the Judicial Commission of Pakistan the authority to transfer high court judges without their consent. This change has sparked discussion across the legal community. Moreover, it has amplified uncertainty for judges who may be affected by the new structure.
Expected Transfers May Begin with Islamabad High Court
According to information circulating within legal circles, transfers are likely to occur in phases. The Islamabad High Court may experience the first wave of adjustments. As a result, the remarks made during the recent hearings have gained greater significance.
Growing Uncertainty Creates a Shifting Judicial Landscape
These developments have drawn considerable attention because they suggest an approaching reshuffle. Although no official transfer list has been issued yet, the implication of imminent change remains strong. Consequently, lawyers and litigants are preparing for possible disruptions in case schedules.
