Lahore High Court (LHC) Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani resigned on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, citing health concerns, personal reasons, and what he described as reasons of conscience.

In his resignation letter to President Asif Ali Zardari, Justice Kayani said amendments introduced through the 26th and 27th Constitutional Amendments had compromised the independence and institutional integrity of the high courts.

He also expressed concern over what he described as the executive’s growing influence over judicial institutions, particularly in the appointment and transfer of judges. According to the judge, these developments had weakened public confidence in judicial independence and the fairness of legal proceedings.

Justice Kayani said he had handled more than 23,000 cases during his judicial career, seeking to uphold the Constitution and protect fundamental rights. He added that he intended to return to legal practice after leaving the bench.

The judge was transferred from the Islamabad High Court to the Lahore High Court in April 2026. His resignation comes years before his scheduled retirement in February 2032.