Islamabad: The 27th Constitutional Amendment has been introduced in the Senate, marking a significant development in the country’s legislative framework. The amendment was moved by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, who elaborated on its key features during the session.
According to Radio Pakistan, the proposed constitutional amendment includes forty-nine clauses that cover five distinct subject areas. One of the primary proposals is the establishment of a federal constitutional court, a measure that aligns with the points agreed upon by political parties in the Charter of Democracy. This court is intended to adjudicate cases related to constitutional matters and the interpretation of the constitution, with its permanent seat to be located in Islamabad.
The amendment also proposes that the President may transfer a Judge from one High Court to another based on recommendations by the Judicial Commission of Pakistan. This process would involve the chief justices of the respective high courts as members of the Judicial Commission.
In addition, the amendment suggests changes to article 243, where the President, advised by the Prime Minister, will appoint the Chief of the Army Staff as well as the Chief of the Defense Forces. The appointment of the chiefs of air and naval staff will likewise be on the Prime Minister’s advice. The office of the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee is set to be abolished by November 27, 2025.
Further provisions include the Prime Minister’s role, upon the recommendation of the Chief of the Army Staff, in appointing the Commander of the National Strategic Command. This role will be filled by a member of the Pakistan Army, with the Prime Minister determining the associated salaries and allowances.
The amendment stipulates that officers promoted to Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force, or Admiral of the Fleet will retain their rank and privileges for life, with the Federal Government outlining their responsibilities post-command.
The Chairman Senate has referred the constitutional amendment to the Senate’s standing committee on law and justice for further review. He has instructed that the committee invite the Chairman and members of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Law and Justice to participate in the proceedings. Joint meetings of both committees are expected to facilitate a comprehensive review, with a report to be submitted to the house.
The Senate session has been adjourned and will reconvene on Sunday at 3 p.m.