Did Pakistan President Just Sign a Controversial Law?
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Synopsis
The signing of the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill by Pakistan's President Zardari has ignited significant controversy. With protests from opposition parties and claims of fraud, this amendment is seen as a pivotal moment in Pakistan's political landscape. What does this mean for the judiciary and democracy in the country?
Key Takeaways
- President Zardari signed the controversial 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill.
- The bill was approved by both houses of parliament.
- The amendment modifies the role of the Chief Justice.
- Opposition parties are planning protests against the bill.
- The legislation is viewed as a threat to judicial independence.
Islamabad, Nov 13 (NationPress) - On Thursday, Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari officially endorsed the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill, following its approval by both parliamentary houses. This signing has now integrated the amendment into the constitution, as reported by local news outlets.
The Senate passed the amendment earlier that day amid protests from the opposition, having received a two-thirds majority for its clauses.
The bill, containing 56 clauses, had been approved by the National Assembly the previous Wednesday in its original form. Members of JUI-F were present during the session, alongside defected senators from PTI and JUI-F who participated in voting, as noted by The Express Tribune.
Originally presented for a vote in the Senate on Monday, the bill was passed that same day before moving to the National Assembly, which made some amendments before its return to the Senate on Thursday.
Pakistan's Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar reintroduced the bill in the upper house, clarifying that the current Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) will retain the role until retirement, at which point the title will pass to the senior-most judge among the Supreme Court and the anticipated Federal Constitutional Court, according to Dawn.
As per the proposed changes, the CJP would also take the oath for the president, chief election commissioner, and auditor general. The amendment modifies Article 6 of the Constitution, stating, "Any court in Pakistan, including the future Federal Constitutional Court, cannot validate the abrogation of the Constitution," which aims to prevent martial law and support democracy.
PTI Senator Ali Zafar criticized the amendment, labeling it as rooted in "deceit and fraud" and accused the government of rushing it through.
He stated, "They are eager to establish their constitutional court quickly to exert control over it, driven by fear of an individual currently imprisoned nearby." Zafar expressed that public sentiment is against the legislation, asserting, "The very foundation of the 27th Amendment is based on deceit, and this structure is destined to collapse."
The opposition coalition has announced plans to initiate a political movement against the 27th Constitutional Amendment starting Friday, aiming to restore the judiciary's powers and the CJP's authority, which they claim have been undermined by this amendment, reported The Express Tribune.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan stated, "The position of the chief justice has been eliminated — we will work to restore it." He emphasized the need to uphold the judiciary's dignity and authority, criticizing the government's approach as "unacceptable" in the context of necessary judicial reforms.
Mahmood Khan Achakzai, chairman of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PKMAP), announced that peaceful protests will commence on Friday, aimed at reclaiming what they believe to be the people's stolen mandate.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight that the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill has sparked a significant debate in Pakistan. While the government argues for judicial reform, the opposition raises concerns about potential overreach and the undermining of democratic institutions. Our commitment remains to report on these developments impartially, ensuring that the voice of the nation is heard.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill?
The 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill is a recent legislation signed by Pakistan's President, integrating changes to the judiciary's structure and the role of the Chief Justice.
Why is the amendment controversial?
The amendment has faced criticism from opposition parties who believe it undermines the judiciary and is based on deceitful practices.
What are the implications of this amendment?
The amendment could significantly alter the power dynamics within Pakistan's judicial system, affecting the authority of the Chief Justice and potentially leading to political unrest.
What is the opposition's response?
The opposition has vowed to initiate protests and a political movement against the amendment, claiming it curbs judicial independence.
When did the amendment pass?
The amendment was passed by both houses of parliament, with the final signing occurring on November 13, 2023.
