ISLAMABAD: The federal government has unveiled an ambitious 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill, signaling a major shift in Pakistan’s political and judicial structure. The draft has been handed to the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) for review and support to help secure the crucial two-thirds majority needed for its passage.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif personally led a delegation to meet PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and President Asif Ali Zardari, urging their backing for what officials describe as a “reform-focused” amendment package aimed at reshaping governance and federal relations.
🔑 Key Reforms Proposed in the 27th Amendment
1. Removal of NFC Award Protection (Article 160 & Clause 3A):
The amendment proposes removing the constitutional guarantee ensuring provinces a fixed share of federal revenue under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award — a move critics say could weaken provincial autonomy.
2. Judicial Restructuring and Creation of a Constitutional Court:
The government aims to abolish Article 191A and introduce a new article establishing a Constitutional Court with the authority to interpret the Constitution, shifting key powers away from the Supreme Court. Amendments to Article 200 are also included to address High Court judge transfers.
3. Reversal of 18th Amendment Subjects:
The proposal seeks to revert education and population planning back under federal jurisdiction, partially rolling back powers devolved to provinces through the 18th Amendment.
4. Amendments to Armed Forces Command (Article 243):
Changes are proposed to clarify that command of the Armed Forces remains under the authority of the Federal Government, reinforcing civilian control.
5. New Appointment Process for Chief Election Commissioner (Article 213):
The amendment introduces a revised selection mechanism for the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) to prevent political gridlocks during appointments.
⚖️ PPP’s Decision to Shape the Outcome
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari confirmed that the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) will meet on November 6, following President Zardari’s return from Doha, to decide its stance.
Given that constitutional amendments require a two-thirds majority in both Houses of Parliament, PPP’s support will be decisive in determining whether this sweeping reform package becomes law.
💬 GRY News Insight:
If passed, the 27th Amendment could redefine Pakistan’s political and institutional balance — centralizing power in the federation while reshaping judicial oversight and provincial autonomy.
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