MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): Chief Justice Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) High Court, Justice Sadaqat Hussain Raja Wednesday said there should be no interference in judges appointment from across Kohala.
He made these remarks in his farewell address to the High Court staff. Justice Sadaqat Hussain Raja is going to retire on June 8.
Justice Raja made startling revelations in his address, stating that when he was becoming Chief Justice, someone from the federal government had opposed it. The farewell ceremony was organized by the High Court staff.
Justice Sadaqat Hussain Raja said that when his summary for appointing the Chief Justice was moved, someone from Islamabad had opposed it, further elaborating that a panel was sought to fill the office.
When the summary was returned, the Kashmir Council remarked that they did not have any senior judge than me.
He said on oath that during his tenure, there was no political interference in the appointment of High Court judges.
The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and me together made the nominations, he added.
“AJK lawyers and judges are excellent”
Justice Raja said that the lawyers and judges of Azad Kashmir provided him excellent guidance according to the law as they possess excellent abilities, added they lack resources.
Justice Sadaqat Raja lamented that judges appointments are managed from across Kohala.
The subordinate staff highly praised the Chief Justice’s initiatives regarding the judiciary, indicating that his efforts would be remembered for centuries.
It is worth noting that Chief Justice Sadaqat Hussain Raja is retiring on June 8 after completing his tenure, and Justice Liaquat Shaheen has been appointed as the acting Chief Justice.
