Is the 27th Amendment Unconstitutional According to JUI-F?
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Synopsis
The JUI-F party in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa has declared the 27th Amendment unconstitutional, calling it a conspiracy against the Islamic Constitution. Amidst nationwide protests led by various political factions, the amendment has sparked significant unrest and criticism regarding its implications on the country's democratic integrity.
Key Takeaways
- JUI-F condemns the 27th Amendment as unconstitutional.
- Nationwide protests are ongoing against the amendment.
- Concerns raised about the implications for democracy in Pakistan.
- Political factions are mobilizing to voice their dissent.
- Human rights and freedom of expression remain significant issues.
Islamabad, Nov 19 (NationPress) The Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) faction in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa has harshly condemned the 27th Constitutional Amendment, referring to it as a "conspiracy against the Islamic Constitution" and detrimental to national interests, as reported by local media on Wednesday.
During a provincial executive committee meeting in Peshawar, the party voiced its disapproval. Senator Maulana Attaul Haq Dervish, the provincial General Secretary, remarked that the 27th Amendment was approved without adhering to legal and constitutional protocols, according to the Pakistani daily 'The Express Tribune'.
Senator Maulana Attaur Rehman, the Provincial Ameer, claimed that the amendment was passed "under pressure", highlighting that sections removed by the 26th Amendment had been reinstated. The JUI-F provincial executive unanimously denounced the 27th Constitutional Amendment, labeling it "unconstitutional".
Numerous political entities across Pakistan have been protesting against the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill, which was sanctioned by President Asif Ali Zardari on November 13, having earlier been approved by both parliamentary houses. Following its endorsement, the bill is now integrated into the constitution.
The joint opposition alliance, Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Ayeen-Pakistan (TTAP), organized a protest march from the Parliament House to the Supreme Court in Islamabad on Tuesday. Alliance leaders declared their intention to observe a nationwide 'Black Day' on Friday, protesting what they term as “ongoing constitutional violations” in Pakistan.
In statements to the press, TTAP member Allama Raja Nasir Abbas asserted that the march was an expression of their dedication to the “protection” of the Constitution. He stated, "We walked from parliament to the Supreme Court to emphasize the closure of all avenues of justice for the people of Pakistan," as reported by Pakistan-based Geo News.
Allama Abbas critiqued the environment of suppressed freedom of expression in Pakistan. "People have been silenced, fundamental human rights are being violated, and we will not remain quiet as long as we live," he remarked.
Earlier on Monday, members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) staged a protest from the Punjab Assembly to Charing Cross, opposing the 27th Constitutional Amendment.
After submitting a requisition at the Punjab Assembly for a debate on the 27th Amendment, PTI MPAs, led by the party’s secretary-general Salman Akram Raja, marched with flags and placards stating, "We reject the 27th Constitutional Amendment".
During the protests, Salman Akram Raja condemned the amendment, asserting that the judiciary had been targeted and that a compliant judiciary could not represent the interests of the marginalized, according to Pakistan's leading daily Dawn.
On November 16, activists from the Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) and its women's wing, Sindhiyani Tehreek (ST), protested against the 27th Constitutional Amendment, corporate farming, the construction of new canals on the Indus River, honor killings, and the exploitation of Sindh's resources.
The PAT's march commenced at Jail Road and concluded at the local press club, where various leaders addressed participants. PAT President Vasand Thari described the 27th Amendment as “worse than the post-hybrid system and an attack on democracy.”
Point of View
It is vital to maintain an unbiased perspective on the events surrounding the 27th Constitutional Amendment. The widespread protests reflect the deep-seated concerns among various factions regarding constitutional integrity and political accountability in Pakistan. Balancing the voices of dissent with the government’s stance is essential in fostering informed public discourse.
NationPress
19/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 27th Constitutional Amendment?
The 27th Constitutional Amendment is a recent legislative change in Pakistan that has been criticized for allegedly undermining the Islamic Constitution and reinstating provisions that were previously removed.
Why is JUI-F opposing the 27th Amendment?
JUI-F claims that the amendment is unconstitutional and a conspiracy against Islamic principles, asserting that it was passed under undue pressure.
What actions have been taken against the amendment?
Various political parties, including JUI-F and PTI, have organized protests and marches to express their opposition to the 27th Amendment.
What are the consequences of the protests?
The protests highlight significant unrest in Pakistan regarding constitutional violations and could affect the political landscape and governance.
What does the public say about the amendment?
Public opinion is divided, with some supporting the amendment while others, especially opposition parties, view it as detrimental to democracy and human rights.
