President Asif Ali Zardari has formally accepted the resignations of Supreme Court judges Mansoor Ali Shah and Athar Minallah, both of whom stepped down following the approval of the highly debated 27th Constitutional Amendment. Their resignations mark a rare and powerful protest from the highest ranks of Pakistan’s judiciary.
In their resignation letters, both judges described the amendment as a “grave assault” on the Constitution. They expressed deep concern that the new changes weaken judicial independence and increase the influence of the executive branch, which they believe poses a serious threat to the rule of law and the country’s democratic structure.
Legal experts say that such resignations are extremely uncommon and highlight the growing tension between Pakistan’s judiciary and the executive. By stepping down, the judges have made it clear that they refuse to serve under conditions where judicial authority is compromised.
A full court meeting was held today, but the 27th Amendment was not discussed. Meanwhile, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif criticized the judges, suggesting they reacted only after losing what he referred to as their “monopoly.” His remarks have fueled further debate on the strained relationship between the executive and the judiciary.
Supporters of the amendment argue that it enhances government oversight, while critics warn that it undermines judicial independence. The resignations of these two senior judges have intensified national discussions about accountability, governance, and the separation of powers in Pakistan’s constitutional system.
