Saqib Nisar, a distinguished jurist and former Chief Justice of Pakistan, has left an indelible mark on the country’s legal landscape through his unwavering commitment to justice, integrity, and judicial reform. Born on January 18, 1954, in Lahore, Pakistan, Nisar’s journey from a young lawyer to the highest judicial office in the land is a testament to his passion for the rule of law and his determination to uphold the principles of justice and equality.
Nisar’s early years were marked by his academic excellence and his dedication to his legal studies. After completing his education in Pakistan, he embarked on a career in law, joining the bar and establishing himself as a skilled and principled advocate. His early experiences as a lawyer laid the groundwork for his future career in the judiciary, instilling in him a deep appreciation for the importance of fairness, impartiality, and the protection of individual rights.
In 1998, Nisar was appointed as a judge of the Lahore High Court, marking the beginning of his illustrious judicial career. His tenure on the bench was characterized by his commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring access to justice for all citizens, regardless of their status or background. As a judge, Nisar earned a reputation for his integrity, intellect, and dedication to the principles of judicial independence and impartiality.
In 2010, Nisar was elevated to the position of Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court, a role in which he continued to distinguish himself as a champion of judicial reform and accountability. Under his leadership, the Lahore High Court implemented a series of measures aimed at improving the efficiency and transparency of the judicial system, including the introduction of case management techniques, the establishment of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, and the promotion of judicial ethics and professionalism.
In 2014, Nisar was appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, the highest judicial body in the country. His tenure on the Supreme Court was marked by a series of landmark judgments and decisions that had far-reaching implications for Pakistan’s legal and political landscape. From his rulings on issues such as electoral fraud and political corruption to his efforts to protect fundamental rights and promote judicial accountability, Nisar emerged as a fearless and principled voice for justice and reform.
One of the defining moments of Nisar’s tenure on the Supreme Court was his role in the Panama Papers case, a high-profile investigation into allegations of corruption and money laundering involving the then Prime Minister of Pakistan, Nawaz Sharif, and his family. As the presiding judge of the case, Nisar played a pivotal role in overseeing the proceedings and ensuring transparency and accountability in the judicial process. His handling of the case earned him praise from supporters of accountability and good governance, as well as criticism from those who viewed the judiciary’s intervention in political matters as inappropriate.
In addition to his work on the bench, Nisar was also actively involved in efforts to reform Pakistan’s legal system and promote access to justice for all citizens. He advocated for the establishment of specialized courts to deal with issues such as terrorism, corruption, and gender-based violence, as well as the implementation of legal aid programs to assist marginalized and vulnerable populations. His commitment to judicial reform and social justice earned him admiration from colleagues and legal experts both at home and abroad.
Since retiring from the judiciary in 2019, Nisar has continued to be actively involved in public life, using his platform to advocate for causes such as education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. He has spoken out on issues ranging from climate change to political reform, using his influence and expertise to raise awareness and promote positive change in Pakistani society.
As Pakistan grapples with the challenges of the 21st century, Saqib Nisar’s legacy as a jurist and reformer remains a source of inspiration and guidance for future generations. His unwavering commitment to justice, integrity, and the rule of law serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of independent and impartial judiciary in safeguarding democracy, protecting human rights, and promoting the common good.
