Justice Yahya Afridi has officially been appointed as the 30th Chief Justice of Pakistan, following approval by President Asif Ali Zardari on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. His nomination, under the 26th Constitutional Amendment, was confirmed by a parliamentary committee, marking a significant new chapter for Pakistan’s judiciary.
Early Life and Background
Justice Afridi was born on January 23, 1965, in Dera Ismail Khan. He hails from the Adam Khel section of the Afridi tribe, with roots in the Kohat Frontier Region. His family has a long-standing tradition of public service, and he has continued this legacy throughout his legal career.
Education
Justice Afridi received his early education at Aitchison College in Lahore, one of Pakistan’s most prestigious schools. He then pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Economics from Government College Lahore, followed by a Master of Arts in Economics from Punjab University, Lahore.
Later, Justice Afridi earned a Commonwealth Scholarship to complete his LL.M. at Jesus College, University of Cambridge. His academic journey in law continued as he was selected for a scholarship program for Young Commonwealth Lawyers at the Institute of Legal Studies in London. This international education provided him with a solid foundation in legal theory and practice.
Legal Career
After completing his education abroad, Justice Afridi interned at Fox & Gibbons, a notable firm in London. Upon returning to Pakistan, he began working as an associate at Orr, Dignam & Co. in Karachi. Later, he started his own private practice in Peshawar, where he also contributed to legal education by lecturing at Khyber Law College, University of Peshawar. He taught key subjects such as International Law, Labour Law, and Administrative Law.
Judicial Service
Throughout his career, Justice Afridi has been known for his legal acumen and commitment to upholding the rule of law. His experience spans across several critical roles in Pakistan’s legal system, including serving in the Peshawar High Court. His journey from private practice to becoming the Chief Justice of Pakistan highlights his dedication to justice and public service.
Legacy and Future
Justice Afridi’s appointment as the 30th Chief Justice of Pakistan is expected to bring further stability and integrity to the country’s judicial system. His vast educational background, international exposure, and years of experience in both private and public law make him a respected figure within the legal fraternity. As Chief Justice, he will play a critical role in shaping the direction of the Supreme Court and upholding constitutional principles in Pakistan.
