Justice Shams Mehmood Mirza of the Lahore High Court has officially resigned from his position, becoming the first high court judge to step down after the approval of the controversial 27th Constitutional Amendment.
His resignation has sparked strong reactions across legal and political circles, adding a new layer to the ongoing debate about recent constitutional reforms in Pakistan.
According to his family members, Justice Mirza explained in his resignation letter that he could no longer continue his duties “in good conscience” after the amendment was passed.
This statement indicates that he had serious concerns about the changes and believed they affected the independence of the judiciary. Many legal experts and political commentators have already criticized the amendment, saying it could weaken the existing judicial structure and shift the balance of power.
Justice Mirza had been part of the Lahore High Court since 2014 and was expected to serve until 2028. During his long career, he heard several important cases and was known for being a calm, principled, and fair judge. His sudden departure has now raised new questions about how judges across the country view the amendment and what impact it might have on the judicial system.
His resignation comes at a time when the country is already engaged in heated discussions about constitutional authority, judicial independence, and the role of courts in national decision-making.
With Justice Mirza stepping down, many believe that the debate will intensify further, as it highlights the growing concerns within the judiciary itself.
Observers say this development may influence how other judges and legal institutions respond to the amendment in the days ahead.
