ISLAMABAD: Speaking for last time at ceremony marking commencement of new judicial year, Chief Justice of Pakistan Umar Ata Bandial said that court was tested several times in February 2023 with matters pertaining to Constitution of Pakistan.

He added that he did not want to repeat all that has happened but it is reflected in part in decision for audio leaks case.

Commenting on his differences with incoming CJP Qazi Faez Isa, Justice Bandial maintained that latter was an admirable man. Media is eyes and ears of society, said CJP, but, he added, incorrect reports were published about him.

He referred to use of his phrases “Good to see you” and “Short and sweet” and said they were taken out of context. He doesn’t hold this against media, he added.

Outgoing CJP said that this might be his last address as Chief Justice and mentioned that ongoing political situation has also affected judicial performance. Commenting on performance of apex court, CJP Bandial said that SC disposed of 23,000 cases in past year, breaking previous record of disposing of 18,000 cases in a year. CJP added that he had wished to reduce number of pending cases by 50,000 but managed to address only 2,000 cases from backlog.

Justice Bandial took office as CJP in February 2022 and is due to retire on September 16, 2023.

Supreme Court has been marred with controversies this year against backdrop of a political crisis which has garnered attention of international media and much uncertainty surrounding next general elections.

Top court has decisions pending in several political and constitutional cases as CJP Bandial begins his last week in office.

Under his tenure, top court has been criticised by mainstream political parties, especially Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz for extending "Undue favours" to beleagured Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf.

Published in The Daily National Courier, September, 12 2023

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