Why Did Pakistan's Senate Approve the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill Amid Protests?
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Synopsis
On November 13, the Pakistan Senate passed the controversial 27th Constitutional Amendment bill, sparking significant opposition backlash. Despite protests, the amendment's clauses received overwhelming support. This article explores the implications of the amendment, the opposition's response, and the ongoing political turmoil surrounding judicial reforms in Pakistan.
Key Takeaways
- The 27th Constitutional Amendment passed with a two-thirds majority in the Senate.
- The amendment modifies key articles related to the judiciary.
- Opposition parties are mobilizing protests against the amendment.
- The bill will require presidential approval before becoming law.
- Political leaders have expressed strong opposition to the amendment's implications.
Islamabad, Nov 13 (NationPress) The Senate of Pakistan approved the 27th Constitutional Amendment bill on Thursday after a second voting session, despite protests from the opposition. As reported by local media, the amendment's clauses had previously gained the approval of a two-thirds majority.
The bill, which was passed by the National Assembly the day before, comprises 56 clauses and was presented to the Senate in its original form. JUI-F leaders attended the session, and defected senators Saifullah Abro and Ahmad Khan from PTI and JUI-F were present to cast their votes, according to The Express Tribune.
Following the Senate's approval, the 27th Constitutional Amendment will be forwarded to the President of Pakistan. The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs will handle the bill, and once it receives the President's approval, the Ministry of Law will issue a gazette notification.
This amendment involves the removal of alterations previously made to Article 255, Article 214, and Clause 2 of Article 168, along with the repeal of changes to Article 42. Although the Senate had initially approved these four amendments in the original version of the 27th Constitutional Amendment, they were later removed through new modifications by the National Assembly.
In response, the opposition alliance announced plans to initiate a political movement against the 27th Constitutional Amendment starting Friday, with the aim of restoring the judiciary and the powers of the chief justice, which they believe have been undermined by the amendment.
PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan stated, "The office of the chief justice has been abolished — we will restore it." He emphasized that while judicial reforms are essential, the government's current treatment of judges is "unacceptable."
Mahmood Khan Achakzai, chairman of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PKMAP), declared that the opposition will begin protests on Friday, emphasizing that their movement will be peaceful and focused on reclaiming the people's mandate, which he claims has been "stolen."
Achakzai stated, "We will protest and we will not even throw a stone." He also mentioned plans to communicate with foreign diplomats, urging them to reconsider or nullify any agreements with the current government.
Point of View
My perspective aligns with the nation's interests. The passage of the 27th Constitutional Amendment raises critical questions about judicial independence and governance in Pakistan. It's essential to consider both sides of the debate, ensuring that reforms serve the public interest without compromising democratic values.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 27th Constitutional Amendment?
The 27th Constitutional Amendment is a legislative change passed by the Pakistan Senate that modifies several articles of the constitution, affecting the judiciary's powers.
Why is there opposition to the amendment?
Opposition parties claim that the amendment undermines the judiciary and the office of the chief justice, prompting them to initiate protests against it.
What will happen after the Senate's approval?
After Senate approval, the amendment will be sent to the President for final approval, followed by a gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Law.
Who is leading the opposition against the amendment?
The opposition alliance, including PTI and PKMAP leaders, is spearheading the protests against the 27th Constitutional Amendment.
What are the main articles affected by the amendment?
The amendment involves changes to Article 255, Article 214, Clause 2 of Article 168, and Article 42.
