The Political tension in Pakistan deepened on Saturday, following Justice Shams Mehmood Mirza’s resignation as judge of the Lahore High Court. According to reports, he is the first LHC judge to tender his resignation in protest over the passage of the 27th Constitutional Amendment. Justice Mirza was officially appointed as an additional judge of the LHC in March 2014. Meanwhile, his superannuation was due on March 6, 2028, Dawn reported.
About 27th Constitutional Amendment
Two Supreme Court judges earlier resigned, calling the new constitutional amendment an “assault on the constitution and judiciary.” Under the amended legislation, a Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) was established to manage affairs related to the Constitution. Previously, the existing Supreme Court would only resolve matters such as traditional civil and criminal cases.
Amendment Grants Broad New Power To Asim Munir
As per the 27th Constitutional Amendment, only Pakistan Army Chief Gen Asim Munir is allowed to stay in office until 2030 as the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). Justice Mirza’s move has shaken the entire Pakistani judicial system. Munir is now facing allegations of attempting to usurp the Constitution.
Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari signed the contentious 27th Constitutional Amendment on November 13, which gives broad new powers to the new CDF, placing the Navy and Air Force under his command. The sweeping changes angered lawyers and opposition groups, who warned that the independence of the judiciary could be weakened.
