The Supreme Court of Pakistan will hold a full court reference on August 7 in honour of Justice Musarrat Hilali as she retires upon attaining the constitutional retirement age. The ceremony, to be chaired by Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi, is more than a formal farewell—it is a tribute to a judge whose remarkable career has broken barriers and strengthened Pakistan’s judicial landscape. The event will bring together all judges of the Supreme Court, the Attorney General for Pakistan, representatives of the Pakistan Bar Council, the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), and members of the legal fraternity. Speakers are expected to acknowledge Justice Hilali’s outstanding contributions to the administration of justice, the rule of law, and public service.
Justice Musarrat Hilali’ Distinguished Career:
Justice Musarrat Hilali’s judicial journey is one of determination, resilience, and historic achievements. Born on August 8, 1961, she has consistently paved the way for women in Pakistan’s legal profession. Her elevation to the Supreme Court in July 2023 made her only the second woman in Pakistan’s history to serve as a judge of the apex court, following Justice Ayesha A. Malik. More significantly, she became the first woman from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to reach this prestigious position, inspiring countless aspiring female lawyers and judges across the country.
Before joining the Supreme Court, Justice Hilali created history on multiple occasions. She became the first woman to serve as Acting Chief Justice of the Peshawar High Court, a landmark achievement that highlighted her judicial competence and leadership. Throughout her professional career, she repeatedly broke gender barriers by becoming the first female secretary, vice president, and general secretary of the bar, the first female executive member of the Supreme Court Bar Association, the first female Additional Advocate General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the first woman to head the province’s Environmental Protection Tribunal. She also served as the first Ombudsman for the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
An Icon for Bench & Bar:
Justice Hilali’s distinguished service has been recognised not only by the judiciary but also by the legal community. Earlier this week, the Supreme Court Bar Association organised a farewell reception at the Supreme Court’s Karachi Registry. The gathering, attended by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, several Supreme Court judges, and the Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court, reflected the immense respect she commands within the legal fraternity. The presentation of traditional Sindhi ajraks symbolised appreciation for her service and celebrated Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage.
Her appointment to the Supreme Court in 2023 followed the unanimous approval of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan, underscoring the confidence that the country’s highest judicial authorities placed in her abilities, integrity, and professional excellence.
End of an Iconic Era:
Justice Musarrat Hilali retires with a legacy that extends far beyond the judgments she authored. She has transformed perceptions about women’s leadership within Pakistan’s judiciary and demonstrated that merit, dedication, and integrity can overcome longstanding barriers. Her career stands as a beacon for future generations of legal professionals, particularly women aspiring to serve on the bench.
As the Supreme Court bids farewell through a full court reference, the occasion serves not only as recognition of an exceptional judicial career but also as a celebration of a pioneer whose contributions will continue to shape Pakistan’s justice system for years to come.
By
Editorial, Infocus.pk
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is the Supreme Court holding a full court reference for Justice Musarrat Hilali?
The Supreme Court of Pakistan is holding a full court reference to honour Justice Musarrat Hilali upon her retirement after attaining the constitutional retirement age. The ceremony recognises her distinguished judicial service, unwavering commitment to the rule of law, and significant contributions to Pakistan’s judiciary and legal profession.
2. What makes Justice Musarrat Hilali’s judicial career historic?
Justice Musarrat Hilali has achieved several historic milestones throughout her career. She became the second woman to be elevated to the Supreme Court of Pakistan and the first woman from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to serve as a Supreme Court judge. She also made history as the first woman Acting Chief Justice of the Peshawar High Court and held numerous other pioneering positions within Pakistan’s legal and judicial system.
3. What are some of Justice Musarrat Hilali’s most notable achievements?
Justice Hilali’s achievements include becoming the first female secretary, vice president, and general secretary of the bar, the first female executive member of the Supreme Court Bar Association, the first female Additional Advocate General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the first female Chairperson of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Environmental Protection Tribunal, and the first Ombudsman for the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace in the province. These accomplishments have paved the way for greater female representation in Pakistan’s judiciary.
4. What is Justice Musarrat Hilali’s legacy for Pakistan’s judiciary?
Justice Musarrat Hilali leaves behind a legacy of integrity, judicial excellence, and gender inclusion. Her career has inspired generations of women to pursue careers in law and demonstrated that merit and dedication can overcome traditional barriers. Her contributions will continue to influence Pakistan’s judicial system and encourage greater diversity and leadership within the legal profession.