Will Pakistan's Opposition Alliance Succeed in Restoring the Constitution?
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Synopsis
The opposition alliance in Pakistan is set to challenge recent constitutional amendments, vowing to restore the original Constitution through protests. With significant political figures involved and the declaration of a 'Black Day', their movement seeks to address concerns over judicial independence and governance. Will they succeed in their mission?
Key Takeaways
- TTAP's protests aim to restore the original Constitution.
- Controversial amendments are seen as detrimental to judicial independence.
- Prominent political figures are actively involved in this movement.
- Public support is crucial for the success of the protests.
- Establishment of FCC is part of the ongoing judicial reforms.
Islamabad, Nov 14 (NationPress) The opposition coalition in Pakistan, known as the Tehreek-i-Tahafuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP), has committed to organizing protests utilizing all democratic avenues to reinstate the Constitution to its original state following the contentious passage of the 26th and 27th Amendments, as reported by local media.
The TTAP has declared that the upcoming Friday will be recognized as a “Black Day” in Pakistan.
This declaration was made after President Asif Ali Zardari enacted the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill into law on Thursday.
During an urgent meeting at the residence of Majlis Wahdat-i-Muslimeen (MWM) Chairman Senator Allama Raja Nasir Abbas, the TTAP announced its intentions. Prominent figures such as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Ali Gohar, Secretary General Salman Akram Raja, Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M) leader Sardar Akhtar Mengal, and Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) Chairman Mahmood Khan Achakzai were in attendance, according to Dawn, a leading Pakistani daily.
Participants voiced their opposition against the post-amendment Constitution and dictatorship, while expressing support for Imran Khan, the founder of PTI, and for democracy. The TTAP's press release post-meeting emphasized: “TTAP reaffirms its resistance and determination against these unconstitutional amendments and will actively protest through all democratic channels to restore the Constitution to its original form, demanding its reinstatement.”
The TTAP's statement condemned the amendments as detrimental to the fundamental structure of the Constitution and an assault on the judiciary, a critical element of democracy. It further claimed that these changes “have obliterated the fundamental framework of the Constitution” while introducing alterations that favor specific individuals.
The coalition firmly rejected the amendments and called for the restoration of the Constitution in its original form. “These controversial constitutional changes have thoroughly dismantled the judiciary and curtailed the authority and existence of the Supreme Court,” the TTAP declared.
Earlier on the same day, Justice Aminuddin Khan was sworn in as the inaugural Chief Justice of the newly formed Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) in Pakistan on Friday. Zardari administered the oath to Justice Khan at Aiwan e Sadr, the President's official residence.
The appointment of Khan was made by Zardari on Thursday under the provisions of Clause 3 of Article 175A, in conjunction with Article 175C of the Constitution, with the appointment taking effect from the date of Justice Aminuddin's swearing-in ceremony, as reported by Dawn.
The initiative to establish the FCC has been revived as a component of the judicial reform included in the 27th Constitutional Amendment. Government officials have indicated that the FCC is designed to alleviate the workload of the Supreme Court, ensure timely resolution of constitutional cases, and strengthen judicial independence and credibility.
Point of View
It is imperative to observe the TTAP's actions as a reflection of the ongoing political dynamics in Pakistan. Their insistence on restoring the Constitution underscores the need for dialogue and reform within the legislative framework. The situation calls for collective engagement rather than confrontation, ensuring that democracy prevails amidst challenges.
NationPress
15/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of TTAP's protests?
The TTAP aims to restore the Constitution to its original form after the passage of controversial amendments, emphasizing the importance of judicial independence and democratic values.
What do the recent amendments entail?
The 26th and 27th Amendments have been criticized for undermining the judiciary and altering the Constitution in a way that favors specific individuals.
Who are the key figures involved in the TTAP?
Notable leaders include Barrister Ali Gohar, Salman Akram Raja, Sardar Akhtar Mengal, and Mahmood Khan Achakzai, who are advocating for constitutional restoration.
What is the significance of declaring a 'Black Day'?
Declaring a 'Black Day' symbolizes protest against the perceived erosion of constitutional rights and serves to rally public support for the TTAP's cause.
How does the FCC relate to these amendments?
The establishment of the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) is part of the judicial reforms introduced in the amendments, aimed at improving case management and judicial efficacy.
