Photo: Collected
The government has decided to appoint judges for the Supreme Court through an independent "Judicial Appointment Council", as per the newly issued Supreme Court Judge Appointment Ordinance, 2025. Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Asif Nazrul made the announcement at a press briefing held at his office in the secretariat today (21 January).
He said, "In addition, plans are underway to establish a separate judicial secretariat for the SC and introduce a permanent attorney service."
Earlier on the day, the Supreme Court Judge Appointment Ordinance was officially promulgated through a gazette to ensure fair and merit-based appointments to the apex court. Asif Nazrul said the newly issued ordinance proposes the formation of a Judicial Appointment Council.
He explained that the council will consist of six members, chaired by the chief justice. Other members include two justices from the Appellate Division (one retired and one serving), two High Court judges, and the attorney general.
"The council will collect potential candidates' names, though anyone can also propose names. Lawyers will be able to apply directly. The council will then scrutinise all proposals, interview candidates, and appoint judges through a transparent and accountable process."
The adviser said he hopes with the SC's cooperation, the upcoming appointments to the High Court, expected within the next three months, will follow a better and more transparent procedure than ever before.
Messenger/Tareq
