Government Dismisses Speculation on 27th Amendment Amid Planned Legislation

Published at: October 29, 2024 4:16 AM

Updated at: October 29, 2024 2:48 PM

ISLAMABAD: In a significant development regarding legislative measures, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar stated on Monday that the government is not considering the 27th amendment, despite ongoing speculation about potential changes.

While Mr. Tarar firmly ruled out the constitutional amendment, Barrister Aqeel Malik, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Law, suggested that the government might introduce "an amendment" in Parliament, although it remains unclear whether this pertains to a constitutional change or an ordinary legislative proposal. Reports indicate that a bill aimed at amending the Supreme Court Practice & Procedure Act is expected to be tabled soon.

Ruling coalition ally Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and opposition parties have pledged to oppose any amendment, threatening to mobilize public protests against such actions. Mr. Tarar reiterated to reporters that the likelihood of introducing a 27th constitutional amendment is negligible, urging the media to refrain from speculation. He confirmed the government's commitment to fully implementing the recently passed 26th amendment, which revised the procedure for appointing judges to the Supreme Court and the Chief Justice of Pakistan.

In an interview with Geo News, Barrister Aqeel hinted at the possibility of a 27th constitutional amendment being brought forward, contingent on achieving consensus among stakeholders. He dismissed suggestions that a bill establishing military courts was on the agenda, clarifying that discussions were focused on provincial rights.

Highlighting the coalition's political strategy, he stated, "The ruling coalition holds the key. When they choose to act, they will secure the necessary votes in both the Senate and the National Assembly." However, he emphasized that no amendments would be pursued without consensus, indicating that the government seeks collaborative support in this endeavor.

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who played a pivotal role in the passage of the 26th amendment, asserted that his party would resist any controversial clauses previously rejected in earlier drafts. "Will we permit the passage of those elements we excluded from the 26th amendment?" he posed to attendees at a public meeting.

Earlier in the day, PPP members in the National Assembly expressed frustration over the absence of ministers, asserting that the lack of participation made their time in the capital unproductive. Nabeel Gabol from the PPP indicated that an important bill is expected to be presented on Friday, requesting Speaker Ayaz Sadiq to adjourn the session until then, as there would be little to address without ministerial presence.

A source within the PPP revealed that the Practice and Procedure Act Amendment Bill concerning the superior judiciary is anticipated to be introduced on Friday, although the PPP and its coalition partners are reportedly opposed to the bill. PTI leader Asad Qaiser warned on the Assembly floor that his party would vehemently oppose the 27th amendment, declaring, "We will take the issue to the streets if necessary."