President OKs Dismissal of Retired SC Justice Mazahar Naqvi

President Asif Ali Zardari has approved the dismissal of retired Supreme Court Justice Mazahar Naqvi, following findings of misconduct by the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) earlier this month. The decision was made public through an official notification issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice.

The notification, citing Article 209(6) of the Constitution of Pakistan, confirmed the removal of Sayyed Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi from his judicial office, effective from January 10, 2024. It emphasized the recommendation of the SJC and the president’s endorsement for the judge’s dismissal.

Furthermore, the ministry withdrew an earlier notification regarding Justice Naqvi’s resignation, which had been submitted amidst misconduct allegations in January. The resignation, which initially raised eyebrows due to its suddenness, was reconsidered in light of the subsequent findings by the SJC.

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In its comprehensive deliberations spanning over two months, the SJC found Justice Mazahar Naqvi guilty of misconduct, warranting his removal from office. The decision followed an assessment of multiple complaints against the former judge, culminating in a verdict emphasizing the importance of upholding judicial integrity.

The top judicial body, chaired by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, underscored that despite Justice Naqvi’s resignation, the disciplinary proceedings against him remained pertinent. This reaffirms the principle that accountability within the judiciary transcends retirement or resignation, ensuring the sanctity of the judicial process.