Islamabad — A crucial session of the Parliament’s Standing Committee on Law and Justice is underway to deliberate on the 27th Constitutional Amendment, a piece of legislation central to Pakistan’s current political discourse. The bill is expected to be passed by the committee after a clause-by-clause approval of the proposed amendments.
However, this pivotal constitutional process is proceeding under the shadow of fierce protests and reservations from the opposition benches.
Boycotts and Demands:
- The Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) has boycotted the session, citing objections to the committee’s procedure.
- Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has demanded the formation of a full House Committee to debate the amendment, arguing that such a sensitive matter requires input from all members.
- PTI Parliamentary Leader Ali Zafar stated that since the amendment draft was only recently received, it is impossible to debate its substance without adequate time for review.
PPP Demands and Status of Consultation: Meanwhile, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), a key ally in the ruling coalition, has presented significant demands during negotiations with the PML-N regarding the 27th Amendment. These demands reportedly include lifetime immunity for the President of Pakistan and the abolition of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).
Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee, Farooq H. Naek, informed the media that 80% of the constitutional amendment’s points have been thoroughly consulted upon, with the remaining 20% expected to be finalized today. Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar extended an invitation to all political parties to participate, assuring that consultation would continue until 100% consensus is achieved.
The session has become the focal point of a major political debate concerning the constitutional immunities and accountability of the country’s highest office holders.
