Maps
Magazine

LEGAL

IHC Nullifies Justice Tariq Jahangiri’s Appointment, Calls for Judicial Accountability
Islamabad High Court rules Justice Tariq Mahmood Jahangiri’s appointment invalid, citing lack of legal qualification. Court says judicial independence requires competence, accountability, and transparency.
ND
by News Desk
2026-02-23
IHC Nullifies Justice Tariq Jahangiri’s Appointment, Calls for Judicial Accountability

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued a 116-page detailed decision in the case concerning Justice Tariq Mahmood Jahangiri, declaring his appointment as a judge null and void. The decision, authored by Justice Azam Khan, underscores the principle that judicial independence does not place judges above accountability.

The court emphasized that a judge lacking competence, ability, or legal qualifications cannot retain office. “Such removal is necessary to maintain the independence of the judiciary. Accountability does not weaken institutions; it strengthens them,” the judgment stated. The decision noted that access to justice is meaningless without an independent, competent, and trustworthy judiciary.

The ruling criticized appointments based on administrative approval or verification as insufficient substitutes for meeting constitutional standards. “A lawyer’s license cannot remove deficiencies in basic education. Without a valid and legal LLB degree, the appointment is invalid from the beginning,” the judgment said.

The IHC further explained that wrongful appointments weaken the judicial structure and undermine public trust. Transparent appointment processes and adherence to constitutional qualifications are essential to safeguard the fundamental right to justice.

Declaring Tariq Jahangiri’s appointment null and void, the court reinforced that only legally qualified individuals can hold judicial office. The ruling reiterates that courts exist to serve society, not for the convenience of judges, and that adherence to legal and constitutional standards is paramount to protecting judicial independence.
Tagged:

IHC

judiciary

PakistanLaw

JudicialAccountability
Share News: