Justice Aminuddin Khan takes oath as first chief justice of Federal Constitutional Court

Justice Aminuddin Khan on Friday took oath as the first chief justice of the newly established Federal Constitutional Court, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan’s judicial history. President Asif Ali Zardari administered Justice Aminuddin the oath at a ceremony held at the Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad.

The event was attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Asim Munir, the chiefs of the Pakistan Air Force and Navy, Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, Speaker of National Assembly Ayaz Sadiq, Chairman Senate Yousaf Raza Gilani, federal ministers, parliamentarians and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari. Senior judges and other key national figures were also present, underscoring the importance of the occasion.

The Constitutional Court has been established under Article 175B of the Constitution through the 27th Amendment passed by the Senate and assented by President Asif Ali Zardari a day ago.

In his remarks, President Zardari highlighted the role of the constitutional court and the judiciary in ensuring national stability. PM Shehbaz emphasised the need to protect judicial independence and uphold the constitutional order.

Justice Aminuddin made first CJ of FCC

After taking the oath, Chief Justice Aminuddin pledged to strengthen the delivery of justice and safeguard the supremacy of the Constitution.

President Zardari had formally approved his appointment as the Federal Constitutional Court’s chief justice last night, following the advice of the prime minister. The Ministry of Law later issued the official notification. Justice Aminuddin also heads the constitutional bench formed under the 26th Constitutional Amendment.

Meanwhile, preparations have been completed for the oath-taking of the court’s six additional judges. The ceremony will be held in the open area between the judges’ block and the administration block of the Islamabad High Court. Chief Justice Aminuddin is scheduled to administer their oath.

What is the Federal Constitutional Court?

The Federal Constitutional Court has been established under the 27th Constitutional Amendment and will adjudicate key constitutional matters, including disputes between the federation and provinces as well as inter-provincial issues.

Under the new framework, judges of the Federal Constitutional Court will serve until the age of 68, while its chief justice will retire after completing a three-year term.

The court’s rulings will carry binding authority over all courts in Pakistan, including the Supreme Court. On the other hand, all courts—except the Federal Constitutional Court—will remain bound by decisions of the Supreme Court.