Pakistani judge resigns over alleged govt control of judiciary

Lahore High Court judge Mohsin Akhtar Kayani has resigned, alleging that growing executive interference has undermined judicial independence and public confidence in the justice system, according to Dawn.

In his resignation letter to the Pakistani president on Wednesday (October 28), Kayani cited personal reasons, health problems following recent surgery and “the call of conscience”. He said the 26th and 27th constitutional amendments had weakened the independence and institutional standing of high courts.

Kayani, who said he had disposed of more than 23,000 cases, expressed concern over executive influence in judicial appointments and transfers, as well as the difficulties faced by litigants. He said he would return to legal practice to protect people's rights and promote legal awareness, despite being due to retire in 2032.

Before his transfer to the Lahore High Court in April, Kayani was a senior judge at the Islamabad High Court. In March 2024, he was among six IHC judges who alleged interference by intelligence agencies in judicial affairs, including pressure on judges and surveillance of their families and homes.

-AH