FCC CJ says judiciary must remain within constitutional bounds

Chief Justice Aminuddin Khan of the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) emphasized the importance of constitutional supremacy during an event in Islamabad. He stressed that every exercise of public authority should adhere to the Constitution, stating that "the Constitution must remain supreme, and every exercise of the public authority must remain within its constitutional boundaries."

The FCC Chief Justice described the Constitution as the "supreme expression of the collective will of the people." He added that all institutions created under it derive their authority from it and are bound by its limits.

Khan noted that the FCC was established as part of a judicial restructuring under the 27th Constitutional Amendment, which took place in November 2025. Some legal experts had criticized the amendment, fearing it would undermine the Supreme Court (SC) as the highest judicial body in the country, transferring that role to the FCC. The Chief Justice explained that until the FCC had its own regulatory framework, it had to abide by the rules of the SC.

He highlighted that the creation of the FCC marked an important moment in Pakistan's constitutional history, as it aimed to ensure that constitutional adjudication played a unique role in the administration of justice. This involvement encompasses disputes between individuals, issues concerning the state's structure, distribution of constitutional powers, protection of fundamental rights, and preservation of the constitutional order.

Justice Aminuddin acknowledged that when the FCC was established, it lacked a fully developed institutional infrastructure. He explained that the court had to build itself while simultaneously fulfilling its judicial responsibilities. The FCC began its work with three benches the day the judges took their oath, marking a powerful reminder of the spirit with which the institution was born.

Initially, the FCC operated from the building housing the Islamabad High Court (IHC) before moving to its current premises, originally designed for the Federal Shariat Court (FSC). The FCC's present building was constructed around 46 years ago and was initially intended for around 100 employees. Today, nearly 400 FCC officials and staff work in the limited space available, causing considerable stress on facilities.

Despite the physical constraints, the court has continued its work, underscoring that institutions are built by people, commitments, discipline, and collective sacrifices and devotion to the cause.