CJP Afridi Backs Judges’ Transfer to IHC, Calls It a Fair Opportunity for Provinces

Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi has endorsed the recent transfer of judges from various provincial high courts to the Islamabad High Court (IHC), describing it as a fair chance for judges across the country. He emphasized that the IHC represents the entire nation and should include judges from all provinces. CJP Afridi clarified that the transfers were conducted constitutionally under Article 200, which permits the president to transfer high court judges with their consent and after necessary consultations. He distinguished between the processes of appointment and transfer, noting that the transferred judges were already serving in high courts. The Supreme Court Bar Association also supported the transfers, viewing them as a beneficial practice that strengthens the judiciary by providing judges with diverse experiences.