Federal Court Oath Ushers in Pakistan’s New Judicial Era

Pakistan entered a new phase in its legal system as national leaders gathered in Islamabad for the historic Federal Court Oath ceremony. Justice Aminuddin Khan assumed his role as the first chief justice of the Federal Constitutional Court. He promised to uphold the Constitution and deliver justice without fear or favour.

New Chief Justice Takes Charge

Justice Aminuddin declared that he would follow the law with integrity. He also stated that he would avoid any action influenced by personal interest. Therefore, he committed himself to fairness and transparency in all judicial matters.
President Asif Ali Zardari administered the oath at Aiwan-e-Sadr. The event brought together Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief Justice Yahaya Afridi and key political leaders. Military officials, members of the legal community and other national figures also attended. Their presence highlighted the importance of this new judicial chapter.

Appointments Strengthen the FCC Bench

The president appointed six judges to the Federal Constitutional Court under Articles 175A and 175C. Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi, Justice Aamer Farooq, Justice Ali Baqar Najafi, Justice KK Agha and Balochistan High Court Chief Justice Rozi Khan Barrech joined the court. Justice (retd) Arshad Hussain Shah also accepted an appointment after Justice Musarrat Hilali declined the post.
In addition, Sindh High Court’s Justice Karim Khan Agha prepared to take his oath, which aimed to complete the seven-member bench. Justice Aminuddin later administered the oath to Justices Rizvi, Farooq and Najafi at the Islamabad High Court. As a result, the FCC began forming its operational foundation.
Government sources stated that officials plan to expand the FCC strength to 13 judges. This expansion will require parliamentary approval. The move signals a long-term effort to stabilise and strengthen the country’s constitutional justice system.