In Islamabad, a five-judge Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) released a detailed 33-page opinion on Friday, concluding that Sayyed Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi was guilty of misconduct and should have been removed from the position of judge. The honorific ‘Justice’ or ‘Judge’ should not be used with his name henceforth.
The SJC found numerous instances of misconduct by the judge, tarnishing the reputation of the judiciary. Despite Mr. Naqvi’s resignation a day before the SJC commenced proceedings on nine complaints against him under Article 209(6), the council decided to proceed with the case. Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa emphasized the importance of dispelling the misconception that the judiciary is above the law.
While commending the Pakistan Bar Council and other bodies for upholding the rule of law and accountability, the SJC noted at least five allegations of misconduct against Mr. Naqvi, including greed, impropriety, and seeking undue advantage.
The council outlined violations of the Code of Conduct for judges, including involvement in litigation for personal advantage, receiving substantial unexplained gifts, and failing to disclose reasons for receiving properties. Mr. Naqvi’s acquisition of four properties within less than two years of assuming office raised serious questions of propriety, according to the SJC.
In light of these findings, the SJC concluded that Mr. Naqvi’s actions constituted violations of judicial ethics, warranting his removal from the position of judge.
