Early Life
Maqbool Baqar, a distinguished Pakistani jurist, has served as the Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court and a justice of the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Currently, he holds the position of Caretaker Chief Minister of Sindh since August 17, 2023. His career reflects significant contributions to both provincial and national judicial systems, and his recent appointment as Caretaker Chief Minister underscores his capacity for crucial administrative roles during transitional periods. For the latest information, refer to recent news sources or official announcements.
Education
Maqbool Baqar, born on April 5, 1957, in Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan, has a significant educational background. He successfully completed his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the University of Karachi in 1979. This academic achievement laid the foundation for his subsequent career in the legal field, where he has made noteworthy contributions as a jurist, serving in key roles within the judiciary at both the provincial and national levels. His birthplace and educational journey form integral aspects of his personal and professional background, contributing to his multifaceted profile within the legal landscape of Pakistan.
Judicial Career
Maqbool Baqar’s judicial career is marked by a trajectory of dedication and resilience. Commencing as an advocate in the Sindh High Court (SHC) in May 1981, his commitment and expertise led to his elevation as an Additional Justice of the SHC on August 26, 2002. Subsequently, he received confirmation as a Justice of the SHC on August 26, 2003.
Baqar’s career path took a courageous turn when, due to his judgements in terrorism cases, he became the target of the banned terrorist group Lashkar-e-Jhangvi. The group orchestrated a bomb explosion on June 26, 2013, aiming at him. Despite sustaining injuries, Baqar displayed resilience and underwent months of rehabilitative surgery.
Acknowledging his remarkable judicial acumen, Baqar was appointed as the Chief Justice of the SHC on September 20, 2013, following the retirement of the previous Chief Justice, Mushir Alam. His tenure was marked by significant contributions and a commitment to justice, even in the face of personal risks.
His dedication and legal insights earned him elevation to the Supreme Court of Pakistan on February 17, 2015. In this apex court, Baqar continued to make influential contributions through his judgements. Notably, his ruling in the case of Asif Ali Zardari vs. National Accountability Bureau (NAB) underscored that NAB had exceeded its investigative powers in the case against the former President of Pakistan.
Another impactful moment in Baqar’s career was his dissenting note in the case of Qazi Faez Isa vs. Federation of Pakistan. Here, he expressed that the presidential reference against Justice Qazi Faez Isa was politically motivated, showcasing his independence and commitment to justice.
Baqar’s illustrious career culminated with his retirement from the Supreme Court on April 4, 2022. Post-retirement, he transitioned to academia, serving as a visiting professor at the University of Karachi. His journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the principles of justice, even in the face of personal challenges and external pressures.
Later Career
On August 14, 2023, a significant consensus was reached between Murad Ali Shah, the outgoing Chief Minister of Sindh, and Rana Ansar, the outgoing Leader of the Opposition. Both leaders concurred in proposing the name of Maqbool Baqar for the position of Caretaker Chief Minister of Sindh. This collaborative decision reflected a spirit of cooperation and mutual understanding, crucial during the transitional period between governments.
In alignment with this agreement, Maqbool Baqar assumed the role of Caretaker Chief Minister of Sindh, officially taking the oath of office on August 17, 2023. This appointment underscored the trust placed in his capabilities and impartiality to oversee the affairs of the province during the interim period leading up to the next election.