Justice Shams Mehmood Mirza of the Lahore High Court has formally resigned, becoming the first high court judge to step down after the approval of the 27th Constitutional Amendment. His decision has created strong reactions across legal and political circles, intensifying the national debate surrounding recent constitutional reforms.
According to family members, Justice Mirza stated in his resignation letter that he could no longer serve “in good conscience” after the amendment was passed. His words clearly show that he had serious concerns about the changes and believed they would negatively impact judicial independence. Many legal experts and political analysts have already criticized the amendment, claiming it might weaken the existing court structure and shift the balance of power.
Justice Mirza, who joined the Lahore High Court in 2014 and was expected to serve until 2028, built a reputation as a fair, calm, and principled judge. He handled several major cases over the years, making his sudden departure even more significant. His resignation has raised new questions about how judges across Pakistan view the amendment and what it could mean for the future of the judiciary.
This development comes at a time when the country is already deeply involved in discussions about constitutional authority, judicial independence, and the evolving role of courts in national governance. With Justice Mirza stepping down, observers believe the debate will only grow stronger, as it highlights rising concerns within the judiciary itself.
