The Senate approved the 27th Constitutional Amendment on Monday with a two-third majority. Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar tabled the bill after securing support from government allies. Meanwhile, opposition parties staged protests and walked out of the session. Some PTI senators stayed inside, chanting slogans against the government. The approval came after the joint parliamentary committees submitted their report on the amendment.
The committees approved 49 amendments clause by clause. These include changes to Article 243, establishment of constitutional courts, and extension of pending case review periods. The amendment states that if a case is not pursued within one year, it will be considered disposed of. Government allies also proposed changes, such as renaming Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Discussions are ongoing regarding increasing assembly seats in Balochistan.
Read more: Senate reviews 27th Amendment report as opposition walks out
Opposition leaders, including PTI and JUI, criticized the process. They said they were not allowed to review the amendment properly. Some senators warned that the bill could weaken institutions and harm Pakistan. They refused to support the amendment, highlighting procedural bypasses in parliamentary input. Meanwhile, some members focused on the national importance of transparent decision-making.
Law Minister Tarar said the government has sufficient numbers to pass the bill. Senators from the ruling coalition praised the Prime Minister’s commitment to strengthening democracy and national defense. Federal Minister Khawaja Asif expressed confidence that the amendment supports constitutional reforms. Supporters emphasized that the amendment addresses legal gaps and ensures smoother administration of justice.
Read more: Parliament clears most clauses of 27th amendment
The amendment now moves to the National Assembly for final approval. Lawmakers expect debates and discussions before ratification. The government hopes to finalize changes and implement reforms soon. Both supporters and critics continue to voice their positions, signaling ongoing political tension. The passage of the amendment marks a major legislative milestone despite controversy.