President Asif Ali Zardari has accepted the resignations of Supreme Court judges Mansoor Ali Shah and Athar Minallah. The resignations were submitted following the passing of the controversial 27th Constitutional Amendment.
Both judges described the amendment as a “grave assault” on the Constitution. They expressed concerns that it weakens judicial independence and threatens the democratic structure of the country. Their letters highlighted the increasing influence of the executive branch over the judiciary, which they viewed as a serious challenge to the rule of law.
The resignations mark a rare protest from the highest level of Pakistan’s judiciary. By stepping down, the judges have signaled their refusal to be part of a system where judicial authority is undermined. Legal experts say such resignations could raise important debates about checks and balances in Pakistan’s governance system.
A full court meeting was held today, but the 27th Amendment was not discussed. Meanwhile, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif criticized the judges, suggesting they acted only after losing what he described as their “monopoly.” This comment has sparked further discussions about the tension between the executive branch and the judiciary.
The 27th Constitutional Amendment has been widely debated, with supporters claiming it strengthens government oversight and opponents warning it endangers judicial independence.
The resignations of Mansoor Ali Shah and Athar Minallah have intensified public and political scrutiny, making the amendment a key issue in ongoing discussions about Pakistan’s democratic framework and separation of powers.
These developments highlight growing concerns over governance, accountability, and the independence of key state institutions in Pakistan.
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