The government is nearing completion of the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill, aiming for parliamentary approval soon. This significant legislative package includes crucial defence reforms and other judicial and administrative changes, though it faces a key reservation from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) regarding the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award.
The proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill is currently in its final drafting stages and is anticipated to be presented to the federal cabinet as early as Friday, following which it may be laid in the Senate the same day. This comprehensive amendment seeks to introduce several significant changes to the country’s constitutional framework.
Key Defence Reforms in the 27th Constitutional Amendment
A central component of the 27th Constitutional Amendment focuses on pivotal defence reforms. Official sources indicate that a key clause aims to enhance coordination and collaboration among the armed forces. This initiative is designed to ensure a more unified and swift response to any external aggression, drawing lessons from recent regional developments and the evolving nature of modern warfare.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed that consultations are ongoing regarding amendments to Article 243 of the Constitution. This article currently vests “control and command of the Armed Forces” in the Federal Government and “the Supreme Command” in the President. Minister Asif emphasized that “defence requirements have changed” and that the entire process will be carried out through mutual consultation with all political parties. SindhNews.com reports extensively on these developments.
Political Consultations and PPP’s Stance
The ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has been actively consulting its coalition partners, including the PPP, to ensure the smooth passage of the amendment package. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and a PML-N delegation have met with PPP leaders President Asif Ali Zardari and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to solicit their support.
While the PPP has reportedly agreed to most of the proposed changes, significant reservations remain concerning any amendment that could affect the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award. Party sources indicate the PPP is firm against any move compromising the constitutional protection of provincial shares in national resources. A PPP Central Executive Committee (CEC) meeting is scheduled for Thursday in Karachi to finalize the party’s position.
Other Proposed Changes and Judicial Reforms
Beyond defence, the 27th Constitutional Amendment encompasses other notable proposed changes. These include the establishment of specialized Constitutional Courts to handle the complex 6% of cases that drain significant judicial resources. Defence Minister Asif highlighted that such courts would create a dedicated forum, improving efficiency.
The amendments also propose the restoration of executive magistrates, changes relating to the transfer of judges to be entrusted to the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP), and potentially bringing education and population planning back to the federal legislative list. The government has directed treasury MNAs and senators abroad to return swiftly to ensure parliamentary attendance for the crucial voting process.
The ongoing legislative efforts surrounding the 27th Constitutional Amendment underscore a significant push for reforms impacting national defence, judicial efficiency, and federal-provincial financial distribution. While broad consensus appears to be forming on many aspects, the constitutional protection of the NFC Award remains a key point of contention, shaping the future parliamentary debate.