ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) on Thursday found retired judge Justice (retd) Mazahir Naqvi guilty of misconduct, suggesting that he should have been fired before his resignation.
In its findings, the Supreme Judicial Council said that there were multiple complaints against Justice Mazahir Naqvi. He was guilty of misconduct and “should have been removed from the office of Judge”.
The Council has promptly forwarded its recommendation to the President for approval.
In response to concerns raised during this process, the Supreme Judicial Council announced amendments to Clause No. 5 of the Judges’ Code of Conduct, aiming to address issues surrounding the handling of allegations against judges of the Supreme Court and the High Court.
The Council acknowledged the challenges faced by judges in responding to publicized allegations and clarified that such responses do not breach Clause 5 of the Code. Amendments were made to provide clarity and ensure fairness in applying the Code.
Moreover, the Council reviewed several complaints against Justice Mazahir Naqvi, finding him guilty of misconduct based on nine complaints under Clause 6 of Article 206 of the Constitution, resulting in the recommendation for his removal as a judge.
Earlier, on November 22, the SJC issued a detailed show-cause notice to Justice Mazahir Naqvi over misconduct complaints, directing him to respond within 14 days. Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, along with three other justices, directed Justice Naqvi to submit a reply within the stipulated time, while Justice Ijazul Ahsan dissented with the majority opinion.
These developments have stirred controversy, with Justice Naqvi accusing the SJC of bias in an open letter addressed to the Chief Justice and Supreme Court judges. He highlighted concerns about undue pressure and alleged bias among Council members, asserting his commitment to contest what he views as unjust actions. Later, he resigned from his post as judge of the apex court.
