Justice Umar Ata Bandial becomes Pakistan’s top judge

Justice Umar Ata Bandial has been sworn in as the 28th Chief Justice of Pakistan in an oath-taking ceremony held at the Presidential Palace, Islamabad on Wednesday.

President of Pakistan Dr Arif Alvi administered the oath to Justice Bandial. Prime Minister Imran Khan was also in attendance.

Senior army officials, judges, lawyers and federal ministers also attended the ceremony.

Justice Bandial in his address to the full court, said that judges correct their own errors, which is why the minority changed into a majority in Justice Faez Isa’s case.

“A social media campaign was launched against judicial orders,” he said.

The top judge said that personal attacks are being made against judges on social media, urging the Bar to play its role against criticism before the apex court takes notice.

Justice Bandial has replaced Justice Gulzar Ahmed, who has served as the top judge of Pakistan from December 2019 till February 1, 2022.