Senate Approves 27th Amendment Bill Again Amid Opposition Protests
The Senate has once again passed the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill, incorporating key revisions approved by the National Assembly a day earlier. The bill, which seeks to redefine Pakistan’s judicial and constitutional framework, was approved with a two-thirds majority — 64 votes in favour and four against — despite loud protests from the opposition benches.
Opposition Protests and Defectors’ Role
As Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani presided over the session, opposition lawmakers accused the government of “rewriting the Constitution.” However, two defectors from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) — Saifullah Abro and Ahmad Khan — voted in favour of the revised bill, drawing sharp criticism from their parties.
Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar defended the voting process, clarifying that under Article 63-A, members are not automatically disqualified for voting against party lines until the legal process is completed. He added that the party head must issue a reference to the Election Commission after conducting a hearing. “We should not twist the Constitution for political scoring,” Tarar said.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar also weighed in, saying that voting against party directives was not an act of rebellion but an act of “following one’s conscience.” He commended the defectors for voting independently and emphasized that no official resignations had been received from the Senate Chairman.
Key Features of the 27th Amendment
The 27th Amendment Bill introduces major changes to the structure of Pakistan’s judiciary and military command. A new Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) will be established with equal provincial representation and powers to take suo motu notice on petitions. The bill also clarifies that the Chief of Army Staff will assume the role of Chief of Defence Forces, while honorary military titles such as Field Marshal and Admiral of the Fleet will remain for life.
Another key change defines the Chief Justice of Pakistan as the senior among the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and the Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court. The incumbent Chief Justice will continue to serve until completing the current term, ensuring stability during the transition.
The amendment also limits presidential immunity in cases where a president takes public office after completing tenure. Additionally, the Judicial Commission will now handle the transfer of high court judges, with the Supreme Judicial Council reviewing any objections.
National Assembly’s Revisions and Political Impact
A day earlier, the National Assembly approved the revised version of the amendment with 234 votes in favour and four against. Several clauses initially passed by the Senate were removed, particularly those concerning the oaths of constitutional officeholders. The NA’s version refined Article 6 (related to high treason) and clarified Article 10(4) on preventive detention, ensuring the inclusion of both the Supreme Court and the new Federal Constitutional Court.
The passage of the bill marks a significant moment in Pakistan’s constitutional history. It aims to balance judicial authority, improve institutional clarity, and establish new frameworks for accountability and governance.
However, opposition parties have vowed to challenge the legislation, calling it an attempt to centralize power and undermine judicial independence. Despite their protests, the ruling coalition insists the reforms will strengthen Pakistan’s democratic institutions and ensure greater transparency in governance.
