Supreme Court Judges Mansoor Ali Shah, Athar Minallah Resign

In a significant development, Supreme Court Justices Mansoor Ali Shah and Athar Minallah have tendered their resignations, sources confirmed on Thursday. The decision comes at a time when Pakistan’s judiciary is undergoing major reforms, including the establishment of the Federal Constitutional Court under the 27th Constitutional Amendment.

Justice Mansoor Ali Shah’s resignation was particularly notable, as he submitted a detailed 13-page letter to President Asif Ali Zardari. In his letter, he stated that he was resigning “with a clear conscience” and expressed that he had “no regrets” regarding his decision. This move marks a pivotal moment for Pakistan’s judicial system, as the resignation of such senior judges could have significant political and legal implications.

Along with Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Athar Minallah also resigned, further deepening the ongoing shift in the country’s legal landscape. These resignations come in the wake of the passage of the controversial 27th Constitutional Amendment, which has already sparked debates over its potential impact on judicial independence.

Oath-Taking of Justice Aminuddin Khan

In parallel, preparations are underway for the oath-taking of Justice Aminuddin Khan as the Chief Justice of the newly formed Federal Constitutional Court. The oath-taking ceremony is expected to take place at the Presidential Palace, with sources suggesting that it could occur as early as tonight.

Key political figures, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Speaker of the National Assembly, Chairman of the Senate, and other federal ministers, have reportedly been informed about the ceremony, which is poised to mark a new era in Pakistan’s judicial framework.

Justice Aminuddin Khan is expected to play a critical role in the functioning of the Constitutional Court, which is part of Pakistan’s broader judicial reforms introduced by the 27th Constitutional Amendment. These reforms are designed to restructure the judiciary, but they have already raised concerns over their long-term impact on judicial independence and the checks and balances system in the country.

As this story develops, many are keenly watching how these changes will affect the judiciary and political stability in Pakistan.