A crucial debate on the 27th Constitutional Amendment is underway in Pakistan’s Senate. The session proceeded after the federal government and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) reached a consensus on the final draft following last-minute negotiations.
Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar confirmed the completed draft has been sent for printing. “Some changes were made, and they have been incorporated,” he stated.
The ruling coalition currently holds 63 of the 96 Senate seats. However, they require a two-thirds majority, or 64 votes, to pass the constitutional amendment.
The absence of two key figures—Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani and ailing Senator Irfan Siddiqui complicates the government’s efforts. The PML-N and PPP are now coordinating to secure support from other parties. This includes the National Party, to reach the crucial threshold.
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The opposition has strongly condemned the proposed amendment. The Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-e-Pakistan (TTAP) alliance has denounced it as an “assault on the Constitution” and announced a nationwide protest campaign.
During the Senate session, opposition senators criticised their exclusion from the process. PTI Senator Ali Zafar told the media the opposition would block the amendment if the government fails to secure the required numbers.
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The sweeping bill proposes major structural changes to the state. These include creating a new post of Chief of Defence Forces to replace the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee.
The amendment also establishes a Federal Constitutional Court to adjudicate matters of constitutional law. Furthermore, it seeks changes to the judicial appointment process to align with the new court framework.
In a significant development, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered the immediate withdrawal of a clause seeking immunity for the Prime Minister. This decision reaffirms that an elected leader “must remain fully accountable.”
