Understanding the leadership of Pakistan’s judiciary is crucial for both legal professionals and the public. The Islamabad High Court (IHC), established in 2007, stands as a key judicial institution with appellate jurisdiction over the federal capital. At its helm is the Chief Justice, who not only adjudicates high-profile cases but also steers the court’s administration, case assignments, and procedural rulings.
As of 14 February 2025, Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar serves as the acting Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court. This appointment ensures continuity of leadership and adherence to institutional norms while awaiting the appointment of a permanent Chief Justice.
This article explores his role, the importance of judicial leadership in IHC, how acting Chief Justices differ from permanent appointees, and the succession from his immediate predecessor.
Understanding the Role of Chief Justice in IHC
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Judicial leadership: The Chief Justice heads the court, assigns judicial benches, oversees case rosters, and ensures efficient case management.
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Administrative head: Beyond hearing cases, the CJ manages administrative operations—budget, staff, judicial reforms, and court rules.
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Symbol of continuity: When the sitting Chief Justice vacates the position, the most senior judge usually becomes the acting Chief Justice, ensuring uninterrupted leadership.
Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar: Acting Chief Justice Profile
Justice Dogar assumed the role of acting Chief Justice on 14 February 2025, as recorded on the official IHC website and Wikipedia Wikipediamis.ihc.gov.pk. As acting Chief Justice:
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He fulfills all judicial and administrative activities of the Chief Justice’s office.
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He presides over benches, refers judicial cases, and handles court-wide judicial assignments.
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His leadership ensures the court’s routine functions remain operational during transition.
Succession & Predecessors
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Justice Aamer Farooq: Served as Chief Justice from 11 November 2022 until his elevation to the Supreme Court in February 2025 Wikipedia.
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Justice Athar Minallah: Held the position preceding Justice Farooq—from 28 November 2018 to 10 November 2022 Wikipedia.
The transition from Justice Farooq to Justice Dogar aligns with standard judicial succession—that is, the next most senior judge steps in as acting CJ until a formal appointment is made.
Legal Context & Institutional Significance
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The chief justice appointment process in Pakistan involves recommendation by the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) and final approval by the President.
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Acting Chief Justices are typically senior judges who provide stability during transitions without requiring the full formal appointment process.
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The court’s structure, including the number of permanent and additional judges, is guided by recent constitutional amendments and the Islamabad High Court (Amendment) Act of 2024 Wikipedia.
FAQs
1. Who is the current Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court?
As of 14 February 2025, Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar serves as the acting Chief Justice of IHC Wikipediamis.ihc.gov.pk.
2. Why is he an “acting” Chief Justice, not permanent?
An acting CJ is appointed when the previous Chief Justice vacates the office (e.g., through elevation to the Supreme Court). The senior-most judge assumes temporary leadership until a formal appointment is made.
3. Who was the Chief Justice before him?
Justice Aamer Farooq held the position from 11 November 2022 until his elevation to the Supreme Court of Pakistan in February 2025 Wikipedia.
4. What was Justice Athar Minallah’s role?
Justice Minallah served as Chief Justice of IHC from 28 November 2018 to 10 November 2022, after which he too was elevated to the Supreme Court Wikipedia.
5. What are the responsibilities of the Chief Justice?
The Chief Justice oversees adjudicative tasks (e.g., presiding over benches, hearing appeals) and administrative duties (e.g., roster preparation, court management, implementing reforms).
Conclusion
Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar, appointed as acting Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court on 14 February 2025, upholds judicial leadership and court administration during this transitional phase. His role ensures the court’s operations continue seamlessly, following the departure of Justice Aamer Farooq to the Supreme Court. The consistent application of seniority and judicial norms reflects the resilience of Pakistan’s legal framework.