Throughout his 20-month tenure, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial faced immense controversy, yet he displayed remarkable patience in the face of criticism and campaigns waged against him by political parties and the media.
His entire career became a subject of debate due to the polarization within the Supreme Court. Despite the contentious environment, CJP Bandial, known for his soft-spoken demeanor, maintained an untarnished record of financial integrity. He garnered widespread respect within the legal community for his professional conduct as a judge before assuming the role of Chief Justice.
CJP Bandial holds a unique place in the judicial landscape, as he is the last retiring judge who, back in 2007, had refused to take the oath under the Provisional Constitution Order (PCO) while serving as a judge in the Lahore High Court.
Read More: Outgoing CJ hopes for timely elections
Advocate Ahsan Bhoon, a prominent member of the Independent Lawyers Group, expressed disappointment over how CJP Bandial's career had become entangled in controversy due to the internal divisions within the Supreme Court. Bhoon lamented that the chief justice had been surrounded by individuals with hidden agendas, some of whom had close ties to former DG ISI Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hamid during his tenure.
Despite the polarized environment and severe criticism from political parties and media personalities, CJP Bandial never wavered in his commitment to his role and responsibilities. He chose to ignore the negative campaigns and social media backlash directed at him for his conduct and judicial decisions.
In a departure from the practices of his predecessors, CJP Bandial warmly engaged with lawyers and media personnel, even those who had criticized him vehemently throughout his career. His courtroom demeanor was often lauded, characterized by grace, empathy, and a genuine effort to instill hope among litigants.
Read More: SC got bogged down by ‘controversies’
When asked about the outgoing CJP's qualities, Advocate Abdul Moiz Jafferi highlighted his refusal to step back from the provincial assembly elections issue, suggesting that he turned down what could have been seen as a reward for his position. Jafferi commended his dedication to his beliefs, acknowledging that although he encountered challenges and criticisms, he made earnest efforts to pursue his convictions.
Advocate Umer Gilani acknowledged that CJP Bandial's political decisions might have garnered few admirers but attracted numerous ruthless critics. Gilani noted that since 2017, CJP Bandial was a part of the influential chief justice’s bench that played a substantial role in the dynamics of Pakistan’s democracy. However, he also emphasized CJP Bandial’s personal conduct, describing him as an epitome of gentlemanliness.
CJP Umar Ata Bandial's tenure was marked by controversy and challenges, yet he stood out as a judge who maintained personal integrity, humility, and professionalism. His legacy, both in terms of his judicial decisions and his character, will be remembered in diverse ways by those who observed his time in judicial power.
Read the full story at the express tribune website.
