As Pakistan’s judiciary prepares for a significant transition, the nomination of Justice Yahya Afridi as the next Chief Justice promises to uphold the legacy of judicial independence exemplified by the current Chief Justice, Qazi Faez Isa. Justice Afridi, with his extensive experience and principled approach, is poised to continue Isa’s commitment to constitutional supremacy and the protection of civil liberties.
Early Life and Legal Education
Born on January 23, 1965, in Dera Ghazi Khan, Justice Afridi’s education began at Aitchison College, Lahore, where he developed his early academic foundation. He later pursued higher education at Government College Lahore, completing his graduation, and obtained a Master’s degree in Economics from Punjab University. His legal ambitions took him to the prestigious Jesus College at Cambridge University, where he earned his LLM on a Commonwealth Scholarship.
A Career of Significance
Justice Afridi’s career began in 1990 as a practicing lawyer in the High Court, and by 2004, he had advanced to practice in the Supreme Court of Pakistan. He also served as Assistant Advocate General for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where his legal acumen gained further recognition. In 2010, he was appointed as an Additional Judge of the Peshawar High Court, and in 2012, he became a permanent judge. His leadership and judicial skills were acknowledged when he took oath as Chief Justice of the Peshawar High Court on December 30, 2016.
In 2018, Justice Afridi was elevated to the Supreme Court of Pakistan, marking the pinnacle of his judicial career. His role in adjudicating complex cases and his thoughtful opinions have made him one of the most respected figures in Pakistan’s judiciary.
Landmark Judgments
Among his many significant decisions, Justice Afridi’s dissent in the case concerning Article 62(1)(F) stands out. While the majority of the Supreme Court upheld the disqualification of lawmakers for life, Justice Afridi argued against this interpretation, stating that such a decision distorts the broader constitutional framework. His stance in this case reflected his commitment to preserving the constitutional balance and protecting individual rights.
Justice Afridi was also a part of the historic Supreme Court bench that reviewed the reference filed by former President Asif Ali Zardari, challenging the execution of Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. His involvement in this high-profile case demonstrated his willingness to engage with Pakistan’s legal history and ensure that justice remains impartial.
He was also appointed to the bench overseeing the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Ordinance 2024. However, Justice Afridi excused himself from this three-judge committee, citing his preference for maintaining judicial independence in controversial matters.
Judicial Philosophy and Conduct
Justice Afridi’s career reflects a deep commitment to upholding constitutional values and protecting human rights. Like Justice Isa, Afridi is not afraid to dissent when necessary, often putting principles above politics. His calm and reasoned judicial approach has earned him respect across the legal community.
As country transitions to a new chapter with Afridi at the helm of its judiciary, his leadership is expected to continue the legacy of Justice Isa — one that places the rule of law and the protection of civil liberties at the core of every decision. With such a principled successor, Pakistan’s judiciary is in capable hands, ensuring that justice will remain impartial and steadfast in the years to come.
