Proposed Extension in Retirement Age: A Move for All, Says Information Minister
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar dismissed the idea that a proposed extension in the retirement age was aimed at benefiting a specific institution. He emphasized that if approved, the move would be implemented uniformly across all sectors.
Recent media reports sparked speculations about potential changes to the Constitution to regulate the tenure of the chief justice. Currently, judges, including the chief justice, retire at the age of 65 as per Article 179 of the Constitution.
During a press conference in Islamabad, Attaullah, accompanied by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, clarified that the retirement age extension proposal was not institution-specific. He highlighted the global trend of increasing life expectancy and the economic burden of pensions on the government.
Aurangzeb echoed similar sentiments, stressing the need for restructuring pension payments and proposing an increase in the retirement age to 65 years. The law minister affirmed that pension reforms would apply universally, extending to civil servants, armed forces, and judicial and executive organs.
While discussions are ongoing, the government aims to address the pension burden strategically to provide breathing space. Azam mentioned the formation of a committee by the prime minister to deliberate on the matter.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has expressed opposition to any amendment that would alter the tenure of judges, labeling such changes as person-specific. Past attempts to modify superior court judges’ tenure have surfaced, including a 2019 bill proposing an increase in retirement age to 68 years.
With constitutional amendments requiring two-thirds majority in both the Senate and the National Assembly, the current coalition holds the necessary strength. As discussions continue, the focus remains on ensuring a comprehensive approach to pension reforms and retirement age adjustments.
