The formal swearing-in ceremony for Justice Mansoor Ali Shah as Acting Chief Justice of Pakistan was held at 9:00 AM on April 21, 2025. This temporary appointment, as confirmed by Amanat Gishkori, is due to Chief Justice Yahya Afridi’s planned international trip
In the official statement issued by the Supreme Court, it was revealed that Chief Justice Yahya Afridi will be traveling to China with an official delegation from April 22 to April 26, 2025. During this time, Chief Justice Afridi, along with other distinguished members of the judiciary, will attend the Chief Justices’ Conference being held in China. This conference serves as an important international platform for the exchange of judicial practices and strengthening ties between judicial institutions from different countries.
The Chief Justice Yahya Afridi will be accompanied by a delegation comprising Supreme Court Justices Ameen-ud-Din Khan and Shahid Waheed, both senior members of the bench. Additionally, District and Sessions Judge Zafar Jan from Gwadar will also be part of this important delegation, representing the judiciary at a local level.
Justice Mansoor Ali Shah will discharge the duties of Acting Chief Justice of Pakistan while Chief Justice Afridi is overseas. Justice Shah is widely regarded as an experienced and capable judicial officer, and his appointment as Acting Chief Justice ensures that the highest court in the country continues to function smoothly during this period of temporary transition. His oath-taking ceremony marks a significant moment in the continuity of the judiciary’s leadership, ensuring that the judicial system remains operational and efficient in the absence of the Chief Justice.
This development further highlights the importance of institutional mechanisms within Pakistan’s judicial system, allowing it to remain fully functional even during the temporary absence of its highest-ranking officials. Justice Mansoor Ali Shah’s leadership in this role is expected to uphold the rule of law and ensure that the country’s judiciary continues to serve the people effectively.
