The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) demanded on Thursday the withdrawal of the 26th constitutional amendment.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said: “We never spread the message of incitement. There is a dire need for the supremacy of the law.”
“The 26th constitutional amendment is the controversial legislation, which should be withdrawn at any cost,” said Khan.
He said: “The PTI’s mandate was snatched in the general elections. Our seats were given to the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) in Karachi. But we still talked about holding the negotiations.”
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“The system cannot be run by letting down one another," he said.
Meanwhile, Awam Pakistan Party (APP) chief Shahid Khaqan Abbasi took a jibe at the government, saying, “Stopping us to hold the conference or considering arresting us reflects the weakness of the government.”
On the other side, former finance minister Miftah Ismail said: “The government has itself proved that there is no supremacy of the law.”
Ismail urged the rulers to sit together and stop thinking about power.
Islamabad witnessed a large-scale protest by lawyers against the 26th Constitutional Amendment and the Judicial Commission meeting scheduled for today.
The demonstration, called by the National Action Committee, saw lawyers from Sindh and other regions gathering outside a private hotel in the capital.
After hours of standoff between police and lawyers, the protesters called off their demonstration and retreated from the protest site, bringing it to an end.
Chanting slogans against the amendment, the protesting lawyers expressed strong opposition, claiming that the amendment is an attack on the judiciary and the state of Pakistan.
The protesters attempted to go from a private hotel to Supreme Court building.
The lawyers marched towards Express Chowk on Embassy Road in the form of a rally.
Clashes
During the demonstration, lawyers attempted to march toward the Supreme Court.
The protesting lawyers removed barricades placed on Srinagar Highway, leading to clashes between them and law enforcement officers.
Police tried to prevent the lawyers from advancing, resulting in a confrontation between the security personnel and the demonstrators.
Amid the protest, lawyers pushed DIG Security Ali Raza as the demonstrators reached Serena Chowk.
The lawyers blocked Srinagar Highway, prompting police to resort to baton charges to disperse the crowd.
To control the situation, police personnel were deployed outside Serena Hotel, prepared to use tear gas to disperse the protestors.
President IHC Bar Association
President of the Islamabad High Court Bar Association, Riyat Ali Azad, criticized the government's decision to seal a 27-kilometer area, calling it a testament to the strength of the legal fraternity and a failure of the administration.
He emphasized that lawyers from across Pakistan have gathered in Islamabad to stand for their cause. He stated that their presence on both sides of the Constitution Highway reflects their unity and determination.
Riyat Ali Azad further declared that the ultimate destination of the protest is the Constitution Highway and the Supreme Court of Pakistan, underscoring their commitment to upholding justice and the rule of law.
Serena Chowk, Nadra Chowk, Marriott, D-Chowk are completely blocked along with the camouflage coming from the Bari Imam shrine. However, the Islamabad administration and Police kept open one gateway to the Red Zone from Margilla Road for the Islamabad Secretariat staffers.
Section 144 has been imposed by the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration.
Senior lawyer Munir A. Malik stated, "All routes have been blocked to stop our protest. This amendment is a direct assault on the judiciary and the constitution of Pakistan. We have fought for constitutional rights in the past and will continue our struggle."
The situation remains tense as the protest continues, with legal professionals vowing to resist any move they believe undermines judicial independence.
The hearing of petitions against the 26th Constitutional Amendment will take place tomorrow (January 27) at the Supreme Court.
An 8-member constitutional bench, headed by Justice Aminuddin Khan, will hear the petitions, with special arrangements made for the session.
The bench hearing more than 20 petitions against the 26th Constitutional Amendment will consist of Justice Aminuddin Khan, Justice Aminuddin Khan, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, and Justice Ayesha Malik.
Justice Hassan Azhar Rizvi, Justice Musarrat Hilali, Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan, and Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan will also be part of the bench.
The constitutional bench will sit in Courtroom No 2, where only relevant parties and journalists with special entry passes will be allowed access.
Mobile phones will be prohibited in the courtroom.
According to the notification issued by the Supreme Court, special security measures have been taken to facilitate the parties and ensure the smooth conduct of judicial proceedings."
Attorney General (AG) Mansoor Usman Awan during a Supreme Court hearing on the case regarding the determination of hearing authority for judicial benches raised objections over the appointment of judicial assistants.
A two-member bench comprising Justice Mansoor Ali Shah and Justice Aqeel Abbasi is presiding over the matter, which has sparked debate on judicial independence and procedural authority.
The AG contended that the judicial assistants appointed in the case are also lawyers challenging the 26th Constitutional Amendment.
He further argued that the court’s jurisdiction in contempt cases is limited and suggested a written statement be submitted on the show-cause notice.
Justice Mansoor Ali Shah remarked that the case was unrelated to the 26th Amendment, adding, “If they start fearing themselves, then it is a different matter.” He also dismissed the AG’s objections, emphasizing that the judicial assistants’ appointments aimed to facilitate fair proceedings.
The court appointed two additional judicial assistants, Khawaja Haris and Ahsan Bhawan, joining Munir A. Malik and Hamid Khan.
Malik, appearing via video link, argued that a judicial order could only be replaced by another judicial order and that administrative orders cannot overrule them.
Justice Mansoor questioned whether such an order could be issued in a contempt case, to which Malik responded, “This issue must be resolved permanently as it pertains to judicial independence.”
The AG refrained from suggesting names for judicial assistants, instead smiling at the court’s remarks.
He maintained that the matter of contempt falls solely between the court and the alleged offender, highlighting concerns over procedural overlap.
The court also heard arguments from Lawyer Shahid Jamil, who pointed out irregularities in bench formations and changes mid-case. Justice Mansoor acknowledged the concern, stating, “Once a case is underway, it cannot be retracted or reassigned arbitrarily.”
The hearing touched on the role of the Practice and Procedure Committee, with differing opinions on whether it could intervene in bench formations. Malik underscored the need for clarity, emphasizing that constitutional matters require adherence to judicial principles.
The court directed Nazar Abbas, a judicial officer involved in the case, to submit a written response by the next hearing. The case has been adjourned until tomorrow, as deliberations continue over the critical issue of judicial bench authority and procedural consistency.
The Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Ministry of Defense to provide detailed information regarding military trials of civilians conducted thus far.
A 7-member Constitutional Bench - led by Justice Aminuddin - convened to address the ongoing legal battle surrounding the military courts' jurisdiction over civilian trials.
The bench includes Justices Jamal Mandokhel, Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Hassan Azhar Rizvi, Masrat Hilali, Naeem Akhtar Afghan, and Shahid Bilal Hassan.
The proceedings began with Ministry of Defense lawyer Khawaja Haris arguing in favor of military trials for civilians, asserting that if the relevant sections of the law are deemed correct, the petitions against such trials would be inadmissible. Haris maintained that the established procedure for military trials was followed meticulously.
However, Justice Hassan Azhar Rizvi raised concerns about the transparency of the military trials, particularly questioning whether the accused were afforded the opportunity to present witnesses and whether the standard of evidence in the trials was in accordance with legal requirements. The court had previously requested the records of military trials but had been refused access. Rizvi emphasized that the court was not seeking a review of the trial’s merits but instead wanted to ensure that due process and fair trial rights were upheld.
Court's request for records
In response, Khawaja Haris agreed to provide the court with the record of one military trial case for review. Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar echoed concerns about the fairness of military trials, stressing that while the court cannot review the merits of the trial, it must ensure that the procedure followed complies with the standards of a fair trial as enshrined in the Constitution.
Justice Hassan Azhar Rizvi reinforced the point, asserting that the court was only interested in reviewing the process of evidence presentation and the opportunity for the accused to present a defense, in line with the principles of natural justice.
The bench further emphasised that no one should be punished without a fair hearing.
Arguments on fair trial
As the hearing progressed, Khawaja Haris argued that petitions challenging the military trials were inadmissible under the existing laws, citing Articles 8(3) and 8(5) of the Constitution, which he claimed rendered the petitions invalid. He asserted that no further review of the trial records was necessary as the military courts had followed the law in their procedures.
Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, however, stated that even in the absence of Article 10A, which guarantees the right to a fair trial, the procedures in military trials must still align with legal norms. Justice Jamal Mandokhel raised concerns about whether the military trial laws could be amended, while Justice Musarrat Hilali asked for clarification on why the need for Article 10A had arisen in the first place.
The Army act and civilian trials
A key point of contention during the proceedings was the Army Act’s provision regarding the military trial of civilians. Justice Jamal Mandokhel questioned whether the Army Act, originally intended to regulate the discipline of armed forces personnel, was being misapplied to civilians. He pointed out that had separate legislation existed for criminal offenses, the issue of military trials for civilians might not have arisen.
Khawaja Haris defended the Army Act, asserting that its purpose was to ensure that military operations were not hindered, and that the application of the law to civilians was an ongoing process of legal reform. However, Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan raised concerns about the inclusion of civilians under the law, noting that the 1967 amendment, which introduced the term "any person," had expanded the scope of military courts to include civilians, including retired officers.
The court also discussed the implications of this amendment, with Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan highlighting that if the amended section of the law were found to be invalid, it could invalidate all military trials of retired officers, including the ongoing case of FB Ali. He suggested that a constitutional amendment may have been necessary to facilitate the trial of civilians in military courts.
Need for clarity in Law
Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan remarked that the recent introduction of Article 10A on fair trials has sparked continued debate in the courts, with even retired officers previously falling under the ambit of military trials. The addition of civilians to this list, he said, might have been a legislative oversight, potentially necessitating a constitutional amendment for clarity.
In response, Khawaja Haris argued that the constitutional amendment for civilian trials was made for a different purpose. However, the court was not persuaded and directed the Ministry of Defense to provide detailed records of all civilian trials conducted under the military courts, excluding cases like that of Kulbhushan Jadhav.
The Constitutional Bench emphasized that while it was not reviewing the merits of the trials, it was imperative that the law’s application to civilians be transparent and in alignment with constitutional guarantees. The court also instructed the Ministry of Defense to provide details on the classification of military court trials of civilians, as discussed in previous court decisions.
As the hearing concluded, the court adjourned the case for further deliberations, with a focus on examining the records of military trials for civilians and determining the adequacy of legal safeguards. The bench underlined its commitment to ensuring that the rights of the accused are not compromised and that the legal process remains fair and just.
The year 2024 marked a defining phase for Pakistan’s judiciary, marked by pivotal reforms, tense power dynamics, and significant constitutional changes. The disputes culminated in the passage of the historic 26th Constitutional Amendment, reshaping the judicial landscape of the country.
The year began under the then chief justice Qazi Faez Isa, whose tenure faced the monumental task of ensuring the conduct of stalled general elections. The Supreme Court, after intervening in late 2023, set February 8, 2024, as the election date. The judiciary’s proactive role ensured the implementation of this decision. Meanwhile, the decision on the PTI's intra-party election was also announced, which further triggered new conflicts between the judiciary and the administration.
In one of the year's landmark rulings, the Supreme Court provided relief to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in the case of reserved seats. This decision came after a lengthy legal battle between the Sunni Ittehad Council and the Election Commission of Pakistan. The government took a clear position against this decision and from here the idea of a new constitutional amendment was generated.
In response to escalating tensions, the government initiated discussions for a constitutional amendment aimed at restructuring the judiciary. What began as proposals to extend judges’ tenure and establish a separate constitutional court evolved into the comprehensive 26th Constitutional Amendment.
Key provisions of the amendment included:
Justice Yahya Afridi, the third senior-most judge, became chief justice following the amendment. He vowed to uphold the principle of balance of powers and initiated various reforms, including in prison administration.
While the judiciary took strides in clearing a backlog of cases, decisions like declaring the trial of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto as non-transparent and restoring parliament’s powers through NAB amendments reflected its efforts to address long-standing controversies.
However, the passage of the 26th Amendment sparked controversy, which remains to be resolved. Senior judge Justice Mansoor Ali Shah raised concerns through written letters to the CJP, highlighting lingering tensions within the judiciary.
Senior lawyer Riasat Ali Azad stated that the judiciary had been rendered completely ineffective. "We hope that the Supreme Court and the judges will stand against it."
Legal experts anticipate that the battle over the 26th Amendment will dominate the judiciary's agenda in 2025. A constitutional bench has scheduled hearings on the amendment for the second week of January, setting the stage for another critical phase in Pakistan's legal history.
Mian Rauf Atta, the president of the Supreme Court Bar Association, told Samaa TV: The year 2024 has not been ideal for the judiciary. I see the coming time better with the arrival of the current chief justice. A constitutional bench has been formed, and in the light of which the bench has started its work, cases are being disposed of, the decisions of which were pending for a long time. So we hope for improvement."
As Pakistan moves into 2025, the question remains whether the judicial reforms of 2024 will stand the test of time or face reversal in the courts. The nation watches closely as the judiciary navigates these turbulent times.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan asked on Saturday the overseas Pakistanis to halt the remittances from tomorrow (Sunday).
Expressing her thoughts, the PTI founder sister, Aleema Khan said: "The deposed premier has demanded the release of unjustly detained workers."
She said that people recognised those standing with the truth. She expressed the belief that the PTI founder would be convicted in the 190 million pound reference case.
Aleema maintained: "The trial court sentences often saw relief from high courts."
Calling the case absurd, she questioned: "Why forming a welfare organisation was being penalised?"
Aleema expressed confidence that the reference would ultimately be dismissed in the high court. She confirmed plans to appeal the case in the high court if a conviction occurred, predicting Imran Khan might face three to four additional months in jail.
Discussing political matters, she highlighted that further cases against party workers clarified the government's unwillingness to hold negotiations. Imran Khan demanded the release of unjustly detained workers and an investigation by judicial commissions into incidents on May 9 and November 26.
She made it clear that the campaign will be suspended if discussions commenced over the two demands.
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Senior Supreme Court judge Justice Mansoor Ali Shah has expressed reservations over the involvement of intelligence agencies in the process of judicial appointments.
In a letter addressed to the Secretary of the Judicial Commission, ahead of the commission's meeting, Justice Mansoor Ali Shah argued that a defined mechanism for appointing judges to constitutional benches must be established within the Judicial Commission’s rules.
Justice Shah highlighted that the formation of constitutional benches in the Supreme Court and the Sindh High Court lacked clearly defined criteria.
"The majority in the Judicial Commission already comprises members from the executive. Allowing intelligence agencies to influence judicial appointments could compromise the independence of the judiciary," he emphasised in his letter.
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The senior judge further proposed that criteria for selecting judges for constitutional benches should include their track record of authoring judgments involving constitutional interpretation.
"It is imperative to determine the competency of judges based on measurable standards," he asserted.
Referring to the 26th Constitutional Amendment, Justice Shah reiterated his stance, calling for the amendment's review by a full court. "A comprehensive review of the amendment is essential before making further decisions on judicial matters," he stated.
The Judicial Commission, under the chairmanship of Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, is set to convene today. Among the agenda items is the potential extension of the Constitutional Bench's term in the Supreme Court, which was initially constituted for two months and is due to expire on January 4, 2025.
'All institutions after opponents, state busy manoeuvring govts'
Earlier, during the hearing of the pre-arrest bail application of a murder accused, the Supreme Court made some strong observations over the unresolved political murders of three former Pakistani prime ministers and the state of political accountability.
Justice Athar Minallah expressed frustration over the state's role in political affairs, stating, "All institutions are after political opponents," adding that the murder of an elected prime minister was acknowledged after over 40 years. “What can be a bigger crime than the assassination of the prime minister?"
Justice Jamal Khan Mandohkel questioned the lack of accountability, asking, "What happened to their cases? Someone should have been held responsible and punished."
He remarked that even the most senior judge in Balochistan was killed, but nothing came of it. "The real thing is that there is no desire to do anything. Compared to the other two provinces, the investigation in Sindh and Punjab is very poor," Justice Mandokhel added.
Justice Malik Shahzad also raised concerns about the unpredictability of the prime minister’s tenure, stating, "A prime minister is in the Prime Minister's House one day and in jail the next. No one knows how long they will remain the PM." He asked, “What will happen to the common man in a country where the prime minister is in this condition?”
Justice Mandokhel echoed similar concerns, noting the widespread public mistrust of state institutions. "People want the Supreme Court to do all the work," he remarked.
Former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has filed a petition in the Sindh High Court, challenging the legality of the 26th Constitutional Amendment.
The petition calls for the amendment to be declared unconstitutional and seeks a halt to the appointment of new judges in the high courts until a decision is reached.
The petition was filed by Abbasi's attorney, Barrister Moeez Jafri, and names multiple parties, including the federal government, the Sindh government, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, and the Election Commission of Pakistan, as parties.
Abbasi’s plea also requests the suspension of the Judicial Commission's functioning while the petition is under consideration. The former prime minister has raised concerns about the implications of the 26th Amendment, urging the court to take immediate action to address the matter.
The 26th Constitutional Amendment has been a subject of debate, particularly regarding its impact on judicial appointments and its alignment with constitutional principles.
Senior Judge of the Supreme Court Justice Mansoor Ali Shah has stressed the urgent need for climate action and financial support to address the climate crisis in Pakistan.
Speaking at a seminar on climate change in Lahore, Justice Mansoor expressed deep concern over the lack of progress in the past seven years and called for immediate action to implement climate diplomacy and finance initiatives.
The senior judge also highlighted that despite the government's efforts in Baku, Pakistan has made little headway in combating climate change. "The last seven years have seen no tangible work on climate change," he noted.
"The courts have issued multiple directives, but the implementation on the ground remains lacking."
The senior judge emphasised that climate finance is critical to securing the future of Pakistan, framing it as a human right.
"Climate finance will be a ray of hope for Pakistan. It will provide security and climate justice to our people," he stated. "Constitutionally, we must move towards climate finance to protect human rights."
He pointed out the constitutional necessity of considering climate finance as a fundamental right, stating that climate justice is essential to safeguard the well-being of the people.
"Pakistan is the eighth most affected country globally by climate change, and we are facing a climate emergency," Justice Shah said. "The courts have always treated climate emergency cases with utmost seriousness."
Despite the urgency, Justice Shah noted that administrative hurdles have hindered progress. He referred to the 2017 law aimed at establishing a climate authority, which has yet to materialize, preventing any substantial steps toward climate finance.
"A fund was supposed to be created under the 2017 Act, but it was not mentioned in the budget. The authority has not been formed, and we are still following the truck lights,” he said, referring to the government's inability to take timely action.
Justice Masnoor Ali Shah also criticised the current lack of resources and the government's inability to focus adequately on the climate crisis. "Right now, it seems the government does not have enough money to address the issue," he noted. "A coordinated strategy for climate emergencies should be developed, but we are still not seeing that urgency."
He further highlighted that addressing climate change requires a multifaceted approach, including food security, disaster management, water security, urban planning, and agricultural reforms. "We need to integrate climate considerations into urban and agricultural planning to effectively tackle the crisis," he added.
The senior judge also noted the significant implications of the 26th Constitutional Amendment, which stripped the courts of suo motu powers, complicating the judiciary's role in climate matters.
"The 26th Constitutional Amendment has taken away our ability to act on our own in cases related to climate emergencies," Justice Shah said. "This is another issue we must address alongside climate finance."
In an effort to tackle pressing constitutional challenges and the issue of implementing the 18th Amendment, the country's parliamentary leadership has decided to convene for a three-day Speakers Conference in Islamabad from December 18.
The conference will bring together the speaker of the National Assembly, the chairman of the Senate, and speakers from all four provinces, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan to deliberate on key national challenges.
A copy of the conference agenda, obtained by Samaa TV, reveals that the review of the implementation of the 18th Constitutional Amendment will be a primary focus.
The conference will also address several other pressing matters, including countering terrorism, combating polio, and tackling environmental challenges. Additionally, discussions will focus on bridging the constitutional gap regarding the stipulated period for the ratification of bills.
Parliamentary accountability is another significant item on the agenda. Measures will be proposed to transform parliament into a more dynamic, active, and supreme institution. This includes making the implementation of orders issued by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) mandatory and considering the formation of an association of Public Accounts Committees to enhance oversight and governance.
Another proposal up for discussion involves the creation of an appellate forum to resolve electoral disputes. This body would consist of the speaker, deputy speaker, chairman, and deputy chairman of the National Assembly and Senate.
On the recommendation of the Sindh Assembly, the agenda also includes a proposal for equal benefits and income tax exemptions for all members of the assemblies and staff.
The conference underscores the need for collaborative decision-making to address Pakistan’s constitutional, legislative, and governance challenges. By gathering the country’s parliamentary leadership under one roof, the event aims to pave the way for more effective governance and improved implementation of constitutional mandates.
Former chief justice of Pakistan (CJP) Jawwad S Khawaja has filed a petition in the Supreme Court, requesting the postponement of hearings on appeals against the nullification of trials of civilians in military courts.
The petition seeks adjournment of the hearing till a decision on the 26th Constitutional Amendment case. It argues that a decision on the 26th Constitutional Amendment is vital before proceeding with the appeals regarding military courts.
The petitioner contends that the constitutional bench of the Supreme Court was formed under the Judicial Commission, which itself came into existence as a result of the constitutional amendment. If the amendment is deemed null and void, the actions of the Judicial Commission, including the current bench, could also be invalidated.
The former CJP's petition also cites a letter from Justice Mansoor Ali Shah to emphasize the importance of resolving the constitutional issue before addressing the military court appeals.
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The appeals in question pertain to the trial of civilians in military courts.
In a letter dated Dec 4, Justice Mansoor Ali Shah formally requested Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi, who is also the chairperson of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan, to postpone the meeting of the Judicial Commission scheduled for December 6, 2024.
The meeting was to consider nominations for the appointment of additional judges to the high courts of Sindh and Peshawar.
In his letter, Justice Shah raised several constitutional concerns that necessitated the postponement. He highlighted that the legitimacy of the 26th Constitutional Amendment, which restructured the Judicial Commission, is still under challenge in the Supreme Court.
It said that over a dozen petitions against the amendment were pending, and a ruling against its validity would render any actions taken by the reconstituted commission, including the nominations/appointments of additional judges in various high courts, null and void.
Justice Shah stressed that proceeding with the appointments before the resolution of these petitions could undermine public confidence in the judiciary and waste resources.
President Daniel Ortega and his wife, Vice President Rosario Murillo, are poised to consolidate absolute control over Nicaragua following the National Assembly's approval of a constitutional amendment elevating Murillo to the role of "co-president."
The amendment, passed unanimously by loyalist lawmakers Friday, extends the presidential term from five to six years and grants the co-presidents sweeping authority over legislative, judicial, and electoral bodies. A second reading in January is expected to formalize the change, solidifying the pair's dominance.
Ortega, 79, and Murillo, 73, have long faced international condemnation for what critics describe as a nepotistic dictatorship. Under their rule, opposition voices have been stifled, with over 5,000 NGOs shut down and hundreds of opponents jailed since mass protests in 2018. The United Nations estimates that more than 300 people died during the unrest.
The revised constitution also labels critics as "traitors to the homeland," a designation allowing the regime to strip individuals of citizenship, a measure already applied to hundreds of dissidents.
Ortega, who first led Nicaragua from 1985 to 1990 before returning to power in 2007, proposed the constitutional changes amid mounting US and EU sanctions over human rights abuses. The amendment will define Nicaragua as a “revolutionary socialist state,” embedding the red-and-black flag of the ruling Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) as a national symbol.
Critics have warned that the reform dismantles any remaining political pluralism and institutional independence. Constitutional expert Azahalea Solis described the changes as excluding alternative political ideologies, while exiled human rights lawyer Salvador Marenco labeled it the end of the separation of powers.
International reaction has been swift. Organization of American States Secretary-General Luis Almagro condemned the amendment as an “aberrant form of institutionalizing marital dictatorship” and an “aggression against the democratic rule of law.”
The Geneva-based UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) also expressed grave concerns in its latest report, citing arbitrary arrests, torture, and increasing violence against Indigenous communities.
Manuel Orozco of the Inter-American Dialogue suggested the amendment guarantees Murillo’s succession and secures a political future for their son, Laureano Ortega. Former Ortega ally turned critic Dora Maria Tellez, now exiled in the US, summarized the move as formalizing a "de facto dictatorship."
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi called on Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman to discuss matters of mutual interest and the prevailing political situation in the country.
During today's huddle in Islamabad, Mr Naqvi inquired about Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s well-being and conveyed his best wishes for the JUI chief’s health and future endeavours.
Naqvi also expressed his gratitude to Maulana Fazlur Rehman for his pivotal role in passing the 26th Constitutional Amendment, which he described as a historic step in Pakistan's legislative process.
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Speaking to the media after the meeting, Naqvi praised Mr Fazlur Rehman’s dedication to the country, stating, "Maulana Fazlur Rehman has always placed Pakistan’s interests above all, and his contributions to the nation are invaluable."
In response, the seasoned politician reiterated his commitment to Pakistan and its people, emphasizing, "Our priority has always been Pakistan and the welfare of its citizens."
Senator Kamran Murtaza was also present at the meeting.
The six-member constitutional bench of the Supreme Court, headed by Justice Aminuddin Khan, continued to hear multiple cases on the second day as well.
The bench disposed of four cases and issued notices in two others.
During the hearing of a suo motu notice on an anti-terrorism case, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar clarified that the apex court retains the authority to take suo motu notice, only the procedure had changed. He added that the only difference was that after the 26th Constitutional Amendment, suo motu cases would be fixed before the constitutional bench.
“Keep in mind that the constitutional bench can take suo motu notice,” Justice Mazhar told the petitioner’s lawyer, Munir Piracha.
Earlier during the hearing, Piracha told the court no further action was required in the case, adding that after the 26th amendment, the Supreme Court cannot take suo motu notices.
The bench then disposed of the case.
Furthermore, the bench adjourned hearings related to the service structure of lady health workers after consolidating all similar cases and issuing notices to the parties involved.
In a suo motu notice case regarding the private use of Islamabad’s Convention Centre, the bench disposed of the case after the additional attorney general informed it that the expenses incurred on the PTI's event at the centre had been paid after the ceremony to the CDA.
“Run the Convention Centre according to the institution's policy,” Justice Jamal Mandokhel remarked.
The bench deferred the proceedings for two weeks in another case regarding the concealment of foreign bank accounts and recovery of allegedly looted money from abroad. It also sought reports from the FIA and FBR on secret foreign bank accounts as well as recovery of looted money.
Justice Mazhar remarked that orders were issued seeking reports from all agencies, including FIA and FBR.
The FBR counsel told the bench the issue concerned the bureau and FIA, adding that agencies had nothing to do with it.
Moreover, in a contempt case, the constitutional bench gave time to former federal ombudsman Yasmin Abbasi to file a reply and adjourned the matter. Justice Aminuddin Khan remarked that Ms Abbasi did not appear in court, while Justice Mazhar said she had been appearing in the past hearings in personal capacity. "Yasmin Abbasi is no longer the federal ombudsman, why are we going ahead?" Justice Mandokhel questioned.
Justice Musarrat Hilali asked is the actions of the federal ombudsman can be challenged in a high court. Justice Aminuddin Khan replied that if a forum takes action beyond its authority, the high court had the jurisdiction. The court then ordered the federal ombudsman's lawyer to submit a reply after seeking instructions on the matter.
In the case of giving right of appeal to judicial employees, the court issued notices to the parties concerned. “Making rules is the job of the high courts concerned,” Justice Mandokhel remarked.
In another case related to the fixing of LPG prices, the bench adjourned the hearing till the second week of December. “Two commissions were formed in this case, but it’s not clear under what authority,” Justice Mandokhel said.
The constitutional bench disposed of another case on an appeal under the Banking Ordinance.
Furthermore, in another case related to the establishment of an IT university, the constitutional bench directed the parties to resolve the issues among themselves and adjourned hearing for 10 days.
CDA counsel Munir Piracha said land could not be given away for educational purposes without the approval of the federal cabinet. He added that after the cabinet’s approval, land could be allotted in Sector I17.
The government of Pakistan has approved a substantial increase in the house rent and judicial allowances for judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts.
According to a presidential amendment decree, issued with the approval of Acting President Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, the house rent for Supreme Court judges has been raised from Rs68,000 to Rs350,000 per month, while their judicial allowances have been increased from Rs428,040 to Rs4,281,163.
The judicial allowance hike for the Supreme Court judges represents a significant rise, with the new allowance now reaching Rs4.28 million. Additionally, the tax on their allowances has been raised to Rs11.61 million.
Similarly, the house rent for High Court judges has also been raised from Rs65,000 to Rs350,000, while their judicial allowance has been increased from Rs342,000 to Rs1,090,000.
The Ministry of Law and Justice issued a formal notification after Acting President Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani's approval, confirming these increases.
The changes come amid ongoing discussions regarding the size of Pakistan's judiciary. The Supreme Court currently has 17 judges, though a recent parliamentary law allows for the expansion of the court to 34 judges, with the appointment of an additional 17 judges still pending.
It is also noteworthy that the salary increases follow an earlier order issued by the Acting President and Chairman of the Senate, Sadiq Sanjrani, on July 4.
This order set the monthly salary for the Chief Justice of Pakistan at Rs1.22 million, while other senior judges of the Supreme Court will now receive Rs1.16 million.
These increases were part of broader efforts to address the financial needs of the judiciary.
Previously, in June 2022, former President Dr. Arif Alvi had approved the monthly salary of the Chief Justice at Rs. 1.02 million, with other senior judges earning approximately Rs. 1.16 million.
The Judicial Commission of Pakistan, chaired by Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi, has approved the formation of a constitutional bench, with Justice Aminuddin Khan appointed as its head.
This decision marks the commission’s first major action since the 26th constitutional amendment and reorganization of the Judicial Commission.
The meeting concluded with the approval of seven judges for the constitutional bench, representing each province. Justice Ayesha Malik and Justice Aminuddin Khan from Punjab, Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhel and Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan from Balochistan, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi from Sindh, and Justice Musarrat Hilali from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will form the bench.
The decision was passed with a 7-5 vote, with Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi, Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Muneeb Akhtar, and PTI's Omar Ayub and Shibli Faraz opposing the majority decision. The law minister, attorney general for Pakistan, and Pakistan Bar Council’s Akhtar Hussain, along with Farooq H Naik, Aftab Ahmed, and Roshan Khurshid Bharocha, voted in favour of the head of the bench.
The composition of the constitutional bench reflects representation from each province:
Punjab: Justice Aminuddin Khan (head of the bench) and Justice Ayesha Malik.
Balochistan: Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhel and Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan.
Sindh: Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Justice Musarrat Hilali.
Furthermore, Justice Aminuddin Khan also became a member of the Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Committee. Under the Practice and Procedure Amendment Act, the head of the constitutional bench shall become the third member of the committee.
The remaining members of the committee are Chief Justice Yahya Afridi and senior most judge Justice Mansoor Ali Shah.
This meeting marked the Judicial Commission’s first session following the recent 26th constitutional amendment and subsequent reorganization of the commission. The meeting also discussed the establishment of the Judicial Commission’s Secretariat and the procedures for nominating judges to various constitutional benches in the Supreme Court.
Justice Mandokhel was also confirmed as the 13th member of the Judicial Commission, joining Justice Aminuddin Khan, who now serves as the head of the constitutional bench, who is already a member of the commission.
According to the constitutional amendment, if the bench chief is already a member of the commission, he will become the second senior judge member.
Senior Supreme Court judges, Justice Mansoor Ali Shah and Justice Muneeb Akhtar, have formally requested the chief justice of Pakistan to convene a full court bench to hear the cases against the 26th Constitutional Amendment.
In separate letter addressed to Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi, copies of which are available to Samaa TV, the judges demanded placing the cases against the recent amendment before a full court this week.
They explained in their letter that in the Supreme Court Practice and Procedure committee meeting of Oct 31, they had decided to place the cases challenging the 26th amendment before the full court. It had been decided that the cases will be heard by the full court on Nov 4. "However, despite the committee's decision, no cause list was issued,” they complained.
The letter further stated that the two senior judges had demanded the chief justice convene a committee meeting on October 31. "When the chief justice did not call the meeting, under Section 2 of the Act, we, judges ourselves, called the meeting,” they stated.
Also Read: Multiple petitions challenge 26th Constitutional Amendment in Supreme Court
The letter stated that in the meeting, the two judges decided that the cases against the 26th amendment would be heard by the full court on Nov 4. Both the judges also directed the court registrar to release the minutes of the Oct 31 meeting on the apex court's website.
“It is with deep concern and regret that we note that no cause list of the Full Court in the matter of the above constitutional petitions has been issued for 4th November, 2024. The decision of the committee, which continues to stand, has to be given effect. We are therefore constrained to require the fixation of the aforementioned constitutional petitions before the Full Court positively during the current week, and for the cause list to be issued accordingly forthwith. In line with established practice sanctioned by the earlier decision of the committee, the Registrar is directed to upload the decision of 31st October, 2024, on the website of the Supreme Court.”
In the letter, both the senior judges demanded the chief justice fix the petitions against the 26th amendment before the full court this week.
Meanwhile, lawyers' organizations from Balochistan, including the Balochistan Bar Council and the Balochistan High Court Bar Association, have filed separate petitions, requesting that the 26th amendment be declared unconstitutional and against the core principles of the constitution.
Also Read: SHC accepts plea against 26th Constitutional Amendment
They have named the law secretary and the chief secretaries of all provinces as respondents, contending that these changes interfere with judicial autonomy.
The petitions also request that the Judicial Commission be stopped from forming, holding meetings, or issuing orders under the new amendment. Additionally, the petitions ask the court to declare all actions taken as a result of the amendment null and void.
Moreover, a group of six prominent lawyers, including a former president of the Supreme Court Bar Association, have also submitted a petition against the 26th Amendment, citing concerns over its impact on fundamental rights.
The petitioners plead for declaring the amendment unconstitutional and contrary to the fundamental rights and constitutional structure. They have also requested that the Judicial Commission be stopped from meeting for the appointment of judges.
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman warned on Tuesday the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz against approving any legislation “undermining” the democratic principles.
Speaking to media, Rehman said: We have differing opinions with other opposition groups, including the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), but there remain avenues for collaboration."
He criticized the government's approach, stating that the upcoming 27th constitutional amendment should be a focal point for discussions. Rehman indicated that the JUI-F plans to actively oppose the government's proposed changes, insisting that both the PPP and PML-N should refrain from endorsing any legislation that undermines democratic principles.
Rehman said: "Allowing such laws to pass would tarnish the image of democracy in the country. "Democratic institutions cannot condone legislation that grants excessive powers to authorities."
He urged the incumbent government to reconsider the clauses it intends to retract from the 26th Amendment. The proposed anti-terrorism reforms would lead to further degradation of democratic traditions," Rehman added.
He reaffirmed his party's commitment to mobilizing public support against these measures, reinforcing the notion that legislation affecting civil liberties cannot be taken lightly in a democratic society.
"First, the government had complained from the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and the institutions are being given extraordinary powers," he maintained.
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The Pakistan Yakjehti Council organized a peaceful rally in Karachi to commemorate the passage of the 26th Constitutional Amendment and express support for newly appointed Chief Justice Yahya Afridi.
Participants welcomed the constitutional amendment, highlighting its significance in strengthening democratic institutions by preventing arbitrary dismissals of elected representatives. The rally also acknowledged the amendment's role in establishing merit-based criteria for Chief Justice appointments.
The demonstration particularly focused on the amendment's provisions regarding judicial appointments, with attendees appreciating the new qualification and competency standards introduced for the position of Chief Justice.
Participants also expressed gratitude to the government for its initiatives to eliminate the interest-based financial system. The rally featured supportive slogans for Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, whom speakers described as one of the Supreme Court's most qualified judges.
The gathering served as a platform to welcome both the constitutional reforms and extend congratulations to Chief Justice Afridi on his appointment to the country's top judicial position. Organizers emphasized the peaceful nature of the rally, which aimed to demonstrate public support for judicial reforms.
Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazir Tarar on Monday firmly dismissed any speculation regarding the introduction of the 27th constitutional amendment.
In a conversation with Samaa TV, he stated, "The 27th constitutional amendment is merely speculation at this time. There are no new constitutional amendments in the pipeline."
Tarar highlighted the government's commitment to implementing the already approved 26th constitutional amendment, asserting that it will yield positive results for the nation.
"The 26th constitutional amendment has been enacted, and its implementation is our focus," he added.
Special parliamentary body retained
Earlier today, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led government has decided to maintain a special parliamentary committee to oversee discussions on potential constitutional amendments and to ensure parliamentary stability.
Sources within the government indicated that future decisions regarding proposed amendments, including the 27th, will ultimately lie with this parliamentary committee, which is tasked with the authority to finalize these proposals.
Must Read: Key highlights of 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill 2024
The government aims to engage all political parties in discussions surrounding constitutional matters. Ongoing consultations among coalition partners, particularly the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), are expected to continue, with a commitment to build consensus across the political spectrum.
In a related development, the coalition government plans to address the ongoing concerns regarding the arrests of members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), with the parliamentary committee also responsible for submitting a report on this matter.
On Sunday, significant political discussions took place between PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The meeting revolved around various constitutional and governance issues, including the proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment.
A key outcome was the decision to swiftly table a bill in parliament aimed at increasing the number of Supreme Court judges. This bill is expected to be introduced imminently and is anticipated to receive approval within days.
Also Read: PM Shehbaz and Bilawal hail 26th Constitutional Amendment as historic step
Moreover, discussions also covered the implementation of the newly approved 26th Constitutional Amendment, with a focus on establishing mechanisms for the formation of constitutional benches at both federal and provincial levels. Leaders agreed that formal meetings would be convened to discuss the formation of these benches.
In addition to constitutional matters, the meeting addressed the pending bill regarding the municipal powers of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), which has now been referred to the relevant committee for further deliberation. The leaders also reviewed the status of agreements between the PPP and PML-N concerning issues in Punjab, including fund releases and administrative positions, to ensure effective governance in the province.
The government has decided to retain the special parliamentary committee to oversee and guide discussions on proposed constitutional amendments, parliamentary stability, and respect for parliamentary members.
According to government sources, in the future, the final decision on proposed constitutional amendments will be taken by the parliamentary committee, including having the final authority on the proposed 27th Amendment.
Sources also reveal that the government aims to take all political parties into confidence on the constitutional matters. For the proposed amendment, ongoing consultations within coalition partners, including the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), will continue, it has been agreed.
Government representatives have confirmed that the coalition will also reach out to other political parties on the proposed changes. The committee has been tasked with submitting a report on the issue of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf members’ arrests, the sources added.
Also Read: Bill regarding number of Supreme Court judges to be tabled soon
On Sunday, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met and discussed significant political developments. Sources revealed that the leaders discussed a range of constitutional and governance issues, including the proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment.
A main outcome of the meeting was the decision to quickly table a bill in parliament that addresses the composition of the Supreme Court by increasing the number of judges. This bill is expected to be introduced in parliament immediately and is anticipated to be approved within days.
Also Read: PM Shehbaz and Bilawal hail 26th Constitutional Amendment as historic step
Discussions also extended to the implementation of the newly approved 26th Constitutional Amendment, focusing on devising a mechanism for the formation of constitutional benches at both the federal and provincial levels. They decided that formal meetings would be held on the formation of constitutional benches.
Moreover, the leaders reviewed the pending bill related to the municipal powers of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), which has now been forwarded to the relevant committee for further consideration.
They also talked about the implementation of an agreement between the PPP and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) regarding the issues of Punjab. The meeting also reviewed the progress in implementation of an agreement over fund release and administrative positions in Punjab, according to sources.
The 26th Constitutional Amendment, which introduced changes to the procedure of appointment of judges and the structure of judiciary, has been challenged in the Supreme Court by multiple petitioners.
Lawyers' organizations from Balochistan, including the Balochistan Bar Council and the Balochistan High Court Bar Association, filed separate petitions, requesting that the amendment be declared unconstitutional and against the core principles of the constitution.
They have named the law secretary and the chief secretaries of all provinces as respondents, contending that these changes interfere with judicial autonomy.
The petitions also request that the Judicial Commission be stopped from forming, holding meetings, or issuing orders under the new amendment. Additionally, the petitions ask the court to declare all actions taken as a result of the amendment null and void.
Moreover, a group of six prominent lawyers, including a former president of the Supreme Court Bar Association, have also submitted a petition against the 26th Amendment, citing concerns over its impact on fundamental rights.
The petitioners plead for declaring the amendment unconstitutional and contrary to the fundamental rights and constitutional structure. They have also requested that the Judicial Commission be stopped from meeting for the appointment of judges.
The petition stresses that parliamentarians cannot be forced to vote for the amendment, adding that parliament is incomplete and there are legal questions over its constitutionality. They further argue that the independence of judiciary and separation of powers are the basic structure of the constitution, which the constitutional amendment cannot change.
A particular point of contention within the petition is the involvement of the Parliamentary Committee in the chief justice's appointment, which the petitioners claim is tantamount to interference in judicial matters. The amendment’s provision for creating constitutional benches at both federal and provincial levels was also akin to a parallel judicial system that challenges the authority of the Supreme Court.
The six lawyers, including Abid Zuberi, have made the federation and the provinces parties in the petition.
The inside story of the recent meeting between Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has unveiled significant political developments.
Sources revealed that the leaders discussed a range of constitutional and governance issues, including the proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment.
A main outcome of the meeting was the decision to quickly table a bill in parliament that addresses the composition of the Supreme Court by increasing the number of judges. This bill is expected to be introduced in parliament immediately and is anticipated to be approved within days.
Discussions also extended to the implementation of the newly approved 26th Constitutional Amendment, focusing on devising a mechanism for the formation of constitutional benches at both the federal and provincial levels. They decided that formal meetings would be held on the formation of constitutional benches.
Also Read: PM Shehbaz and Bilawal hail 26th Constitutional Amendment as historic step
Moreover, the leaders reviewed the pending bill related to the municipal powers of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), which has now been forwarded to the relevant committee for further consideration.
They also talked about the implementation of an agreement between the PPP and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) regarding the issues of Punjab. The meeting also reviewed the progress in implementation of an agreement over fund release and administrative positions in Punjab, according to sources.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured Bilawal Bhutto of the federal government’s support for ongoing development projects in Sindh.
Also Read: Fazlur Rehman’s demand met as govt simplifies registration for religious madrasas
In the meeting held at the premier’s Model Town residence in Lahore on Sunday, Bilawal and PM Sharif discussed the recently approved 26th Constitutional Amendment, and expressed their commitment to strengthening democracy and parliamentary processes in Pakistan.
During the meeting, Bilawal Bhutto hailed the approval of the 26th Constitutional Amendment as a historic step. He stated, "We will work together to strengthen democracy and parliament."
Shehbaz echoed this sentiment, attributing the success of the amendment to the collective efforts of all coalition partners. He reaffirmed his dedication to public service, assuring that he will not waver in his commitment to the people.
The incumbent government on Sunday extended its olive branch to Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman following the latter's cooperation in the recently approved 26th constitutional amendment in the parliament.
According to details, the government has fulfilled Rehman's demand in connection with the seminaries. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led government had made the seminaries' registration process easier in the legislation that took place without any uproar.
The government had fulfilled Rehman's demand formally pertaining to the registration of the seminaries through the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
Seven basics and two additional clauses had been added in Section 21 of Societies Registration Act, 1860.
Sources divulged that now the government will not separately roll out the seminary registration act.
The seminaries will not be provided facilities for easy registration and opening accounts.
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Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said on Saturday that the country had witnessed the economic decline after 2018.
Expressing his thoughts, Rehman said: “I appealed the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to post its protest amid the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. Because there is a need to give a positive message of integrity from the country when it comes to the foreigners.”
He recalled the approval of the 26th constitutional amendment, saying, “We have completely refused the approval of the amendment in Article 8. The basic fundamental human rights are concerned with Article 8.”
“The protection of the fundamental human rights has been preserved in the constitution,” he added.
"We have acted as a party," he said.
Rehman said, “We [JUI-F] are still in the opposition.”
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Following his oath-taking as Pakistan's 30th Chief Justice on Saturday morning, Justice Yahya Afridi has convened a full court meeting of the Supreme Court judges scheduled for Monday, October 28.
The meeting is anticipated to address key judicial matters under his new leadership.
Following a swearing-in ceremony at the President's House, where he was administered the oath by President Asif Ali Zardari, Chief Justice Afridi received a formal guard of honour upon his arrival at the Supreme Court.
Read Also: Justice Yahya Afridi sworn in as 30th chief justice of Pakistan
The ceremony witnessed the presence of notable figures, including Chief Minister of Punjab Maryam Nawaz, Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ali Amin Gandapur, and Governors Faisal Karim Kundi of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Saleem Haider of Punjab.
Other dignitaries included Chairman Senate Yousuf Raza Gilani, Governor of Gilgit-Baltistan Syed Mehdi Shah, Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan, and various federal ministers, along with Supreme Court justices Muneeb Akhtar and Ayesha Malik.
Also Read: After President’s nod, Justice Yahya Afridi notified as Chief Justice of Pakistan for 3 years
Justice Afridi's appointment followed the 26th constitutional amendment, which was approved by a 12-member special parliamentary committee.
Subsequently, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recommended the appointment to President Zardari, leading to Justice Afridi's formal designation.
Newly appointed Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Yahya Afridic called on the outgoing CJP Qazi Faiz Isa in his chamber on Wednesday.
Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa congratulated Justice Yahya Afridi on his nomination.
The first meeting between the two senior judges took place before the start of the day's court hearings, and a second meeting followed after the cases were heard.
Justice Afridi also paid a visit to the chamber of Justice Mansoor Ali Shah.
In addition to the congratulations from his peers, Justice Afridi was also warmly congratulated by his chamber staff.
The newly nominated Chief Justice accepted all the well-wishes graciously as he prepares to take on his new role.
Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal has expressed support for the appointment of Justice Yahya Afridi as the Chief Justice of Pakistan, emphasizing the need for a relatively less controversial figure at an ongoing critical time.
According to Ahsan Iqbal, the Supreme Court required a Chief Justice capable of building a cohesive team and fostering unity within the institution.
In his remarks, Iqbal noted that Justice Afridi was selected from a panel of three judges by a Parliamentary Committee, aligning with established practices for appointing Chief Justices in Pakistan.
He highlighted that the principles of seniority and fitness have been fundamental in judicial appointments over the last two decades, ensuring that qualified candidates are chosen for pivotal roles.
Addressing concerns about potential polarization within the judiciary, Iqbal stated that while political polarization is prevalent due to the multi-party system, the judiciary must remain an institution of justice, free from such divisions.
He contrasted the appointment process in Pakistan with those in the United States and India, where elected officials have significant roles in judicial appointments and oversight.
Ahsan Iqbal's comments reflect the government's rationale for selecting Justice Yahya Afridi.
Pakistan's Parliament has successfully implemented the 26th Constitutional Amendment, establishing a new framework for judicial appointments and reforms after extensive consultations with stakeholders, including legal experts, researchers, and political representatives.
The parliamentary committee has nominated Justice Yahya Afridi as Chief Justice following a merit-based selection process, marking the first such appointment under the new system. The selection involved a thorough review of candidates' profiles and records, though the committee emphasized that all nominated judges were highly qualified for the position.
The amendment introduces significant changes to the judicial system, including the separation of constitutional and civil cases to expedite court proceedings. Legal experts indicate this segregation will help reduce case backlog and improve access to justice for citizens.
The reforms were approved following comprehensive discussions among all political parties, despite initial concerns on social media regarding judicial independence. The new framework aims to eliminate preferential appointments while maintaining judicial autonomy.
Under the new system, cases will be prioritized based on their nature, with separate handling of constitutional and civil matters. Legal experts suggest this streamlined approach will accelerate case resolution and enhance the efficiency of the judicial system.
The amendment represents a collaborative effort between various stakeholders, establishing a more transparent and efficient judicial system while maintaining checks and balances in the appointment process.
Justice Yahya Afridi has been officially appointed as the Chief Justice of Pakistan. Following the President's approval, the Ministry of Law and Justice issued a formal notification on Monday.
Justice Afridi, known for his extensive judicial experience and well-regarded for his integrity and fair-mindedness, will take over the role from the outgoing Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa.
President Asif Ali Zardari has appointed Supreme Court judge Justice Yahya Afridi as the Chief Justice of Pakistan.
President Asif Ali Zardari has officially appointed Justice Yahya Afridi as the 30th Chief Justice of Pakistan.
Following the President's approval, the Ministry of Law and Justice issued a formal notification for the three-year appointment. Justice Afridi will take the oath of office on October 26.
The appointment was made after a 12-member parliamentary committee nominated Justice Afridi with a two-thirds majority.
The committee's decision, finalized with a vote of 8-1, saw JUI Senator Kamran Murtaza supporting Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, while PTI members were notably absent from the meeting.
The nomination was forwarded to the President by the Prime Minister, marking a significant transition in the judiciary as Justice Afridi steps into the role for the next three years.
Justice Yahya Afridi has been appointed for three years from 26th October.
The president made the appointment under Articles 175A (3), 177, and 179 of the Constitution.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif reacted on the appointment of Justice Yahya Afridi as the chief justice of Pakistan, saying nobody can point fingers at the latter.
Expressing his thoughts on Samaa TV, Asif hailed the role of Justice Afridi, saying, “During the time of grouping in the judiciary, Justice Afridi had remained neutral.”
Asif lavished his praise on Justice Afridi, saying, “He [Justice Yahya Afridi] had continued to do his job despite the political role of the Supreme Court.”
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Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Hamid Khan has reacted to the nomination of Justice Yahya Afridi as the chief justice of Pakistan.
According to details, Khan said: "Hopefully, Justice Yahya Afridi will not accept this offer. We will not accept the appointment of Yahya Afridi as the CJP."
"We will condemn his appointment and will stage a protest," he said.
Khan maintained: "The country has suffered from the appointment of out-of-turn judges as the CJP twice."
Separately, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) issued the show-cause notice to Zain Qureshi and others, citing party violation.
According to details, PTI stalwart Firdous Shamim Naqvi had issued the show-cause notice to Qureshi, Riaz Fatyana, Aslam Ghumman, Miqdad Ali Khan.
In an issued notification, the PTI stated: "Why had the contact been deliberately cut off?”
“The mentioned leaders will have to submit responses on the show-cause notice within seven days. The party’s membership will be relinquished if a satisfactory response is not given.”
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Under the 26th Constitutional Amendment, the parliamentary committee on Tuesday nominated Justice Yahya Afridi as the 30th chief justice of Pakistan.
His appointment comes following the retirement of Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa.
Early life and education
Born on January 23, 1965, in Dera Ghazi Khan, Justice Afridi has a strong educational foundation. He completed his primary education at Aitchison College, Lahore, and graduated from Government College Lahore. He later earned a Master of Arts in Economics from Punjab University.
RELATED: What is 26th Constitutional Amendment?
His academic pursuits took him further afield when he received a Commonwealth Scholarship to pursue an LL.M. from Jesus College at the University of Cambridge.
Legal career
Justice Afridi commenced his legal career in 1990 when he was enrolled as an advocate in the Peshawar High Court. His dedication to the law saw him rise through the ranks; by 2004, he was practicing as an advocate in the Supreme Court. His legal expertise also included a role as Assistant Advocate General for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Read also: Gandapur warns of PTI protests if senior judge not appointed chief justice
In 2010, he was appointed as an Additional Judge of the Peshawar High Court, a position he held until he was confirmed as a Permanent Judge on March 15, 2012. He became the Chief Justice of the Peshawar High Court on December 30, 2016, making history as the first judge from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas to assume this position.
Supreme court tenure
Justice Afridi was appointed to the Supreme Court of Pakistan on June 28, 2018. Since then, he has been involved in several high-profile cases, including his participation in the larger bench that heard the presidential reference regarding the execution of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Notably, he wrote a dissenting note in the judgment concerning reserved seats in the Sunni Union Council case.
His legal opinions and contributions have been marked by a focus on administrative law and the intersection of law and public service. Afridi's background as a lecturer at Khyber Law College, University of Peshawar, where he taught International Law, Labour Law, and Administrative Law, showcases his commitment to nurturing the next generation of legal minds.
Personal background
Justice Yahya Afridi hails from a family with a rich tradition of public service, belonging to the Adam Khel section of the Afridi tribe located in the Kohat Frontier Region. His upbringing in such a family has undoubtedly influenced his commitment to justice and service to the nation.
The parliamentary committee is scheduled to meet National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq following the meeting on Tuesday.
Sources divulged that the parliamentary committee will present the report and proposals in line with the appointment of the next chief justice of Pakistan before Sadiq.
Sadiq will also host the luncheon in the honor of the parliamentary committee members.
– Parliamentary committee meeting sans PTI –
Earlier today, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan reiterated that his party will not attend the parliamentary committee meeting.
According to details, despite the statement made by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar that four of the members of the parliamentary committee will convince the PTI and Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) to attend the meeting, the PTI had decided against participating.
Moreover, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman had also urged the PTI to consider its participation in the special committee pertaining to the appointment of the new chief justice of Pakistan.
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Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari stressed on Tuesday the need for reaching consensus over the appointment of the next chief justice of Pakistan.
According to details, the former foreign minister had held a telephonic conversation with the parliamentary committee members. He had given special instructions of the PPP leaders, who are part of the committee.
“The decision over the appointment of the next chief justice of Pakistan should be made through consensus,” Bhutto-Zardari stated.
“The committee members should make efforts to make decisions through consensus,” he added.
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Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan reiterated on Tuesday that his party will not attend the parliamentary committee meeting.
According to details, despite the statement made by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar that four of the members of the parliamentary committee will convince the PTI and Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) to attend the meeting, the PTI had decided against participating.
Moreover, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman had also urged the PTI to consider its participation in the special committee pertaining to the appointment of the new chief justice of Pakistan.
He contacted Qaiser and asked him to consider the participation, but the latter had sought time.
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Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman urged the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to attend the parliamentary committee meeting.
According to details, the political temperature continued to intensify as matters pertaining to the appointment of the new chief justice of Pakistan arose. In this regard, Rehman had held a telephone conversation with PTI senior leader Asad Qaiser.
On this occasion, Qaiser had sought some time to whether attend the parliamentary committee meeting or not.
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Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur threatened on Tuesday to run a movement if the senior-most judge was not appointed the new chief justice of Pakistan.
Expressing his thoughts, CM Gandapur said: "The independent judiciary had not been left as free. Islamabad is the place where we stage our protest in a peaceful manner."
Earlier, CM Gandapur said: "Favoritism is being prioritized for the sake of the personal benefits. Efforts are underway to appoint people in the judiciary at their own will to get decisions in favor."
Taking a jibe at the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), CM Gandapur said: "Both the PML-N and PPP are the parties of the investors. They got to know what they were talking about."
In line with the 26th constitutional amendment, CM Gandapur claimed: "We will end this constitutional amendment with the power of the masses."
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The parliamentary committee meeting on Tuesday nominated Justice Yahya Afridi as the 30th chief justice of Pakistan following the approval of the 26th constitutional amendment.
According to details, expressing his thoughts on the occasion, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar said: “The parliamentary committee had appointed Justice Afridi as the CJP.”
Eight out of the nine members had voted in the favour of Justice Afridi. Sources divulged that JUI-F leader Kamran Murtaza had not voted in favour of Justice Afridi.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had dispatched the summary of Justice Yahya Afridi's appointment as the next chief justice of Pakistan to Aiwan-e-Sadar.
Earlier, the parliamentary committee meeting kicked off pertaining to the appointment of the new chief justice of Pakistan. Prominent among those who attended the committee meeting were Pervaiz Ashraf, Farooq Naik, Shaista Pervaiz Malik, Ahsan Iqbal and Kamran Murtaza.
Syed Naveed Qamar, Rana Ansar, Khawaja Asif and Azam Nazeer Tarar had also attended the meeting.
Meanwhile, expressing his thoughts, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said: "We received the message of Ayaz Sadiq in the National Assembly session. When I came to meet Ayaz Sadiq, a delegation of the special committee was present."
"The special committee members had asked us [PTI] to attend the meeting," he said.
"But I told the members that we will not attend the parliamentary committee meeting," he stated.
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar said on Tuesday that the parliamentary committee meeting will start again at 8:30 pm today.
According to details, Tarar had urged the committee to consult the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders in connection with the appointment of a new chief justice of Pakistan.
“Any of the members of the committee should go and convince the PTI and SIC over the matter,” Tarar said.
Tarar maintained: “We have requested the PTI and SIC leaders to become part of the committee meeting through telephonic conversation.”
The parliamentary committee meeting kicked off on Tuesday in a bid to appoint the new chief justice of Pakistan.
According to details, prominent among those who reached the committee room were Khawaja Asif, Azam Nazeer Tarar, and Ahsan Iqbal. The Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) leaders had also secured their seats despite the boycott.
The names of Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Barrister Ali Zafar, and Hamid Raza had been written.
Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) leader Rana Ansar had also reached the parliamentary committee room.
Law law secretary had also reached the committee room along with the panel of three senior judges.
JUI-F nominated member Senate Kamran Murtaza had also reached to attend the parliamentary committee meeting.
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The parliamentary committee meeting kicked off on Tuesday in a bid to appoint the new chief justice of Pakistan.
According to details, prominent among those who reached the committee room were Khawaja Asif, Azam Nazeer Tarar, and Ahsan Iqbal. The Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) leaders had also secured their seats despite the boycott.
The names of Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Barrister Ali Zafar, and Hamid Raza had been written.
Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) leader Rana Ansar had also reached the parliamentary committee room.
Law law secretary had also reached the committee room along with the panel of three senior judges.
JUI-F nominated member Senate Kamran Murtaza had also reached to attend the parliamentary committee meeting.
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As the tenure of Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa nears its end, attention is now turning to the three most senior judges of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, one of whom is expected to be appointed as the next Chief Justice.
Among the contenders are Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Muneeb Akhtar and Justice Yahya Afridi.
Each of these distinguished judges has made significant contributions to Pakistan's judiciary, and their journeys highlight their deep experience and expertise.
Justice Mansoor Ali Shah
Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, born in 1962, is another senior judge vying for the position. Known for his reformist approach, Justice Shah is credited with modernizing the judicial system in Punjab, where he introduced reforms aimed at improving efficiency and transparency during his time as Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court. His innovative work included the use of technology to streamline case management and court proceedings.
He was elevated to the Supreme Court in 2018, where he continued his focus on human rights and environmental issues. Justice Shah has a reputation for delivering progressive judgments, particularly in areas related to public interest litigation.
His deep commitment to judicial reform and his forward-thinking approach make him a strong candidate for the top judicial post.
Justice Muneeb Akhtar
Born on December 14, 1963, Justice Muneeb Akhtar holds an impressive academic background. He graduated from Princeton University, USA, in 1986 and later completed his law degree from Punjab University Law College in 1989. Justice Akhtar began his legal career in 1990, practicing in the Sindh High Court, and by 2009, he had become an advocate for the Supreme Court of Pakistan.
He was appointed Additional Judge of the Sindh High Court in 2009 and became a permanent judge in 2011.
Justice Muneeb Akhtar was elevated to the Supreme Court on May 8, 2018.
Known for his sharp legal acumen, he authored the landmark judgment on the interpretation of Article 63A, which dealt with the disqualification of lawmakers involved in defection. With his vast experience in constitutional law, Justice Akhtar is regarded as one of the leading candidates for the position of Chief Justice.
Justice Yahya Afridi
Justice Yahya Afridi stands among the top three senior judges of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, positioning himself as a potential candidate for the esteemed role of Chief Justice. Born on January 23, 1965 in Dera Ghazi Khan, Justice Afridi’s distinguished legal career has been marked by significant contributions to Pakistan's judiciary.
After completing his early education at Aitchison College in Lahore, Justice Afridi graduated from Government College Lahore and pursued an MA in Economics from Punjab University. He later obtained an LLM degree from Jesus College, Cambridge University, under a Commonwealth Scholarship, marking his strong academic credentials.
Justice Afridi began his legal career in 1990, practicing at the Peshawar High Court. By 2004, he had become a Supreme Court lawyer and had also served as Assistant Advocate General for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. His judicial journey began in 2010 when he was appointed an Additional Judge of the Peshawar High Court, becoming a permanent judge two years later. He went on to serve as the Chief Justice of the Peshawar High Court, assuming the position on December 30, 2016.
On June 28, 2018, Justice Yahya Afridi was elevated to the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Throughout his tenure, he has been part of various landmark cases. Notably, he was a member of the larger bench that heard the presidential reference regarding the execution of former Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. In addition, Justice Afridi made headlines by writing a dissenting note in a significant case concerning reserved seats in the Sunni Union Council.
Justice Afridi’s career reflects a strong dedication to upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law, making him a notable figure in Pakistan's judiciary as he stands among the three senior-most judges of the Supreme Court.
A petition challenging the recently passed 26th Constitutional Amendment has been filed in the Supreme Court, urging the court to declare it null and void.
The petitioner, Muhammad Anas, argues that the amendment infringes on the fundamental rights of citizens and undermines the independence of the judiciary. According to the petition, the 26th amendment is in violation of the Constitution's basic structure and disrupts the separation of powers between the government and the judiciary.
The petition also claims that the amendment has changed the procedure for appointing the chief justice of Pakistan. It claims that after the amendment, the authority to appoint the chief justice has shifted from the judiciary to the government, which the petitioner contends undermines judicial independence.
Moreover, the petition highlights that the composition of the Judicial Commission, responsible for appointing judges, has also been altered through the amendment. The petitioner claims these changes compromise the independence of the judiciary and give the government undue influence over judicial appointments.
On Oct 21, President Asif Ali Zardari ratified the 26th Constitutional Amendment on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif after crucial amendments were passed by Parliament in a midnight session.
Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had advised President Asif Ali Zardari for assent to the 26th constitutional amendment after its passage by both houses of the parliament with a two-thirds majority.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said the passage of the 26th constitutional amendment is an excellent manifestation of national solidarity and consensus.
As the clock ticks for the appointment of the new chief justice of Pakistan, the registrar of the Supreme Court has submitted the names of three most senior judges to the parliamentary special committee tasked with making the decision.
According to sources, the names were requested from the incumbent chief justice of Pakistan through the court registrar. The three senior judges whose names have been forwarded are Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Muneeb Akhtar, and Justice Yahya Afridi.
These names will now be considered by the committee, which will make its final recommendation for the new chief justice. The committee will send its recommendation to the prime minister for final approval, who will then forward the name to the president for appointment.
The newly formed 12-member special parliamentary committee will convene today to finalize the name of the new chief justice of Pakistan.
Also Read: Who will be new CJP? Decision today from among 3 most senior Supreme Court judges
The meeting, scheduled for 4pm, will consider the names of the three most senior judges of the Supreme Court. The decision is supposed to be reached by a two-thirds majority and will then be forwarded to the prime minister for approval.
The committee includes four members from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), three from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), and three jointly from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Sunni Ittehad Council. The Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) and Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) each have one representative on the panel.
The members of the committee come from both houses of parliament, including four senators and eight members of the National Assembly. PML-N’s Azam Nazir Tarar, Khawaja Asif, Ahsan Iqbal, and Shaista Parvaiz Malik are among the committee members, alongside PPP’s Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Farooq H. Naik, and Naveed Qamar.
Also Read: President Zardari assents to 26th Constitutional Amendment, gazette notification issued
The opposition is represented by Barrister Gohar, Ali Zafar, and Sahibzada Hamid Raza, while MQM’s Rana Ansar and JUI’s Kamran Murtaza are also part of the decision-making process.
The formation of this special committee follows letters written by the Senate chairman and speaker of the National Assembly to major political parties to nominate members in proportion to their representation in parliament. A notification has been issued regarding the committee's formation.
The committee has to reach a decision by midnight today, after which the selected name will be forwarded to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who will then send it to the president for formal approval. Upon receiving presidential consent, an official notification will be issued, and Pakistan’s new chief justice will assume office.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said the 26th Constitutional Amendment passed by the parliament with a two-thirds majority will prove to be a milestone for the economic and political stability and development of the country.
Chairing a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad today, he highlighted the delays faced by the people in legal matters, expressing the confidence that the constitutional amendment, envisaging the establishment of constitutional benches, will provide prompt and easy justice to them.
The Prime Minister said the constitutional amendment is also an accomplishment of the vision outlined in the Charter of Democracy.
He mentioned that the draft of the constitutional amendment was adopted after extensive deliberations with political parties, including those in the opposition. He said the amendment is reflective of the entire spirit of consultation.
The Prime Minister commended the Foreign Office, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Ministry of Interior, the armed forces of Pakistan and law enforcement agencies as well as CDA over their efforts for the successful conduct of the SCO heads of government meeting in the federal capital saying this has further improved the image of Pakistan.
As regards the visit of the Chinese Premier, the Prime Minister said this will further strengthen the bilateral relations between the two friendly countries.
The Prime Minister also expressed satisfaction over the gradual improvement in the economic situation. He said the inflation has come down to 6.9 percent while policy rate has also decreased substantially and it is expected to decline further.
Voicing serious concerns over the relentless Israeli atrocities in Gaza and Lebanon, the Prime Minister called for an immediate ceasefire and an end to the bloodshed of innocent people.
Shehbaz Sharif said a comprehensive program has been developed to deliver humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza and Lebanon. He urged the public to contribute to the Prime Minister's relief fund.
The newly formed 12-member special parliamentary committee will convene today to finalize the name of the new chief justice of Pakistan.
The meeting, scheduled for 4pm, will consider the names of the three most senior judges of the Supreme Court. The decision is supposed to be reached by a two-thirds majority and will then be forwarded to the prime minister for approval.
The committee includes four members from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), three from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), and three jointly from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Sunni Ittehad Council. The Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) and Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) each have one representative on the panel.
The members of the committee come from both houses of parliament, including four senators and eight members of the National Assembly. PML-N’s Azam Nazir Tarar, Khawaja Asif, Ahsan Iqbal, and Shaista Parvaiz Malik are among the committee members, alongside PPP’s Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Farooq H. Naik, and Naveed Qamar.
The opposition is represented by Barrister Gohar, Ali Zafar, and Sahibzada Hamid Raza, while MQM’s Rana Ansar and JUI’s Kamran Murtaza are also part of the decision-making process.
Also Read: Parliamentary committee formed for nomination of new chief justice of Pakistan
The formation of this special committee follows letters written by the Senate chairman and speaker of the National Assembly to major political parties to nominate members in proportion to their representation in parliament. A notification has been issued regarding the committee's formation.
The committee has to reach a decision by midnight today, after which the selected name will be forwarded to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who will then send it to the president for formal approval. Upon receiving presidential consent, an official notification will be issued, and Pakistan’s new chief justice will assume office.
Under the provisions of the 26th Amendment, the CJP's term is now fixed at three years or until the judge reaches the retirement age of 65.
Following the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President Asif Ali Zardari signed the amendment into law early on Monday.
Significantly, the selection process for the chief justice will now involve a pool of the three most senior judges of the Supreme Court, moving away from the previous sole reliance on seniority.
Also Read: Clock ticks for appointment of new chief justice as deadline approaches
The current seniority list positions Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah as the most senior, followed by Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Yahya Afridi. If any of these judges decline the position, the next senior judge will be considered.
A report from The News suggested that Justice Yahya Afridi is the frontrunner for the chief justice position, with government insiders indicating that his non-controversial and neutral stance amidst recent divisions in the apex court may bolster his candidacy.
Overview of leading candidates
Justice Mansoor Ali Shah: As the senior-most judge, he is a prominent contender. He has served as the Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court before his elevation to the Supreme Court in early 2018.
Justice Munib Akhtar: Born in 1963, he joined the Supreme Court in 2018 and is regarded as a significant candidate due to his judicial experience.
Justice Yahya Afridi: The third on the seniority list, he was the Chief Justice of the Peshawar High Court before his elevation to the Supreme Court in 2018.
The coalition government has less than 30 hours to appoint a new Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP), as mandated by the recently enacted 26th Constitutional Amendment.
This new law stipulates that the top judicial position must b e filled three days prior to the incumbent's retirement. Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa is set to retire on October 25, 2024.
RELATED: Gandapur warns of PTI protests if over judiciary’s subjugation
As the clock ticks down, consideration of names for the parliamentary committee responsible for the nomination process is underway. The committee, which requires a two-thirds majority for decisions, will comprise members from both the National Assembly and the Senate.
Parliamentary committee expected composition
Senate members:
National Assembly members:
Under the provisions of the 26th Amendment, the CJP's term is now fixed at three years or until the judge reaches the retirement age of 65.
Following the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President Asif Ali Zardari signed the amendment into law early on Monday.
Significantly, the selection process for the chief justice will now involve a pool of the three most senior judges of the Supreme Court, moving away from the previous sole reliance on seniority.
The current seniority list positions Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah as the most senior, followed by Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Yahya Afridi. If any of these judges decline the position, the next senior judge will be considered.
A report from The News suggested that Justice Yahya Afridi is the frontrunner for the chief justice position, with government insiders indicating that his non-controversial and neutral stance amidst recent divisions in the apex court may bolster his candidacy.
Overview of leading candidates
Justice Mansoor Ali Shah: As the senior-most judge, he is a prominent contender. He has served as the Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court before his elevation to the Supreme Court in early 2018.
Justice Munib Akhtar: Born in 1963, he joined the Supreme Court in 2018 and is regarded as a significant candidate due to his judicial experience.
Justice Yahya Afridi: The third on the seniority list, he was the Chief Justice of the Peshawar High Court before his elevation to the Supreme Court in 2018.
Formation of parliamentary committee
In light of the new law, the formation of the parliamentary committee has begun, with the Speaker of the National Assembly seeking nominations from parliamentary leaders. The committee will consist of eight members from the National Assembly and four from the Senate.
The People's Party has already submitted three names for the committee: former Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf, Farooq H. Naik, and Syed Naveed Qamar. Among them, Naik will represent the Senate while Ashraf and Qamar will represent the National Assembly.
In addition, the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) has nominated Senator Kamran Murtaza for the committee.
The Speaker has sent letters to the parliamentary leaders of various parties, including the Muslim League (N), People's Party, Sunni Etihad Council, and MQM Pakistan, requesting their nominations for representation.
Parliamentary proceedings
The National Assembly convened late on Sunday night, following delays, to discuss the 26th Constitutional Amendment. Prime Minister of Law Nazir Tarar presented the amendment, which was approved by a majority of 225 members, while only 12 voted against it.
Speaking in the House post-approval, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need for justice in the country, declaring the day a historic milestone. He noted that the passage of the amendment demonstrated national unity and consensus.
With the current chief justice's tenure ending soon, the formation of the parliamentary committee is anticipated to occur swiftly, paving the way for the new CJP's appointment before the deadline. The stakes are high as the nation looks toward the judiciary for guidance and stability in these pressing times.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on Monday issued a stern warning to incumbents saying if the senior-most judge is not appointed as Chief Justice, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) will take to the streets once again.
Speaking in the KP Assembly, Gandapur slated the current government, labelling it "self-appointed" and accusing it of undermining the judiciary.
He questioned the public's recourse to justice in an environment where the judiciary is perceived as lacking independence.
“The institutions created for the protection of the people are being manipulated to serve the interests of a select few,” he stated, emphasising the perception that the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has devolved into a tool for political revenge rather than accountability.
Gandapur highlighted the detrimental impact of the unconstitutional amendments, claiming they benefit only a privileged class while leaving the 250 million citizens of Pakistan in a dire situation.
He also lamented the nation's increasing debt and the decline of various sectors, attributing these issues to decisions made by individuals acting against the public's will.
“We will abolish this amendment whenever we regain our mandate,” he asserted, vowing to advocate for amendments that serve the interests of the nation rather than a select elite.
He further threatened accountability for those who have shifted their loyalties, insisting that the PTI would not allow such actions to go unpunished.
In a broader context, Gandapur emphasized the ideological struggle faced by the PTI, rejecting any notion that oppression or force would deter their commitment to their cause.
He concluded with a resolute statement, asserting that the party would not back down in the face of adversity, reiterating their determination to reclaim their mandate and restore the integrity of Pakistan’s institutions.
Following the ratification of the 26th constitutional amendment by President Asif Ali Zardari, a gazette notification has been issued to officially enforce the new law.
The amendment sets the groundwork for the appointment of the next Chief Justice of Pakistan, and the process of forming a parliamentary committee tasked with this responsibility has already commenced.
Sources reveal that the Speaker of the National Assembly has requested parliamentary leaders to submit names for the 12-member committee, which will comprise 8 members from the National Assembly and 4 members from the Senate. Once the committee is formed, a three-member panel of senior judges will be presented by the Ministry of Law for consideration. The parliamentary committee will then select the new Chief Justice from this panel.
The development follows the completion of the amendment’s approval process in Parliament earlier today, just after the Fajr prayer. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif promptly sent the summary to the President, leading to the swift ratification of the constitutional amendment.
President Asif Ali Zardari ratified the 26th Constitutional Amendment on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif after crucial amendments were passed by Parliament in a midnight session.
Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif sent advice to President Asif Ali Zardari for assent to the 26th constitutional amendment after its passage by both houses of the parliament with a two-thirds majority.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said the passage of the 26th constitutional amendment is an excellent manifestation of national solidarity and consensus.
Speaking in the National Assembly today (Monday) after passage of the 26th Constitutional Amendment, he expressed the confidence this legislation will ensure easy and speedy justice to the common man. Describing it as a major milestone, he said this is the fulfilment of the unfinished agenda of Charter of Democracy signed by the political parties.
He was confident that this constitutional amendment will secure and strengthen the country’s future.
The Prime Minister said that the political parties while rising above their personal interests and egos move forward in the best national interest.
He also thanked coalition partners and the JUI (F) for supporting the constitutional amendment.
Jamaat-e-Islami Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rahman reacting to the 26th Constitutional Amendment said legislation in parliament was carried out in the dead of the night and the whole process was ‘suspicious’.
He claimed that the newly passed amendments in the Constitution affected the ‘spirit of the Constitution’.
“There are people in the current parliament who did not win their elections. All these people are the products of Form 47,” he said.
During the hearing of a case related to the Competition Commission of Pakistan, Justice Mansoor Ali Shah made notable remarks about the introduction of constitutional benches under the 26th Amendment as he inquired if the case would now be heard by the newly formed constitutional bench or a regular one, noting, "It seems this question will arise every day"
Barrister Farogh Naseem observed that political cases have increasingly transformed into constitutional matters.
Justice Ayesha Malik also remarked, "Now you know about your constitutional bench."
The court decided to postpone the hearing for three weeks to allow time for further clarity on how the new amendment would impact case proceedings. Justice Ayesha Malik emphasized that under the amendment, Article 199 cases cannot be heard by the court.
Climate Change Authority Case
In another case, Justice Mansoor engaged in an interesting conversation with the Additional Attorney General, inquiring if the Climate Change Authority's chairman notification had been issued.
The Attorney General humorously replied that it had not, as he had been busy. Justice Mansoor responded with a light-hearted remark: "Now all the busyness will be over."
The court adjourned the Climate Change Authority case for two weeks.
The Pakistani Parliament has passed the 26th Constitutional Amendment with a two-thirds majority, introducing significant changes to the country's judicial system. This amendment marks a shift in the balance of power between the judiciary and the legislature, establishing greater parliamentary oversight in the appointment of judges and the Chief Justice.
Key changes include:
1. A 12-member special parliamentary committee will now select the Chief Justice from among the three most senior judges, with final approval from the Prime Minister and President.
2. Supreme Court judge appointments will be made by a commission headed by the Chief Justice, including four senior judges, the Law Minister, Attorney General, and representatives from the bar and parliament.
3. The creation of Constitutional Benches to handle specific constitutional matters and suo motu notices under Article 184.
4. Restrictions on judicial review of advice given by the Prime Minister or Cabinet to the President.
5. Introduction of a performance review mechanism for High Court judges.
6. Mandatory Pakistani citizenship and extensive legal experience requirements for Supreme Court and High Court judges.
The amendment aims to enhance judicial performance and ensure a more balanced distribution of power among state institutions. Proponents argue that this will lead to a more democratic and accountable judicial system, while critics may view it as a potential infringement on judicial independence.
This constitutional change represents a significant development in Pakistan's legal and political landscape, with potential long-term implications for governance and the separation of powers.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has lauded the passing of the 26th Constitutional Amendment calling it a historic moment for democracy and the supremacy of Parliament.
In her statement following the approval, Maryam Nawaz emphasized the significance of the amendment in restoring Parliament’s authority and strengthening the judicial system.
“Long live democracy, long live Parliament,” declared the Chief Minister, congratulating the nation on this achievement. She highlighted that the 26th amendment is a “clear message for the people to raise their voice” and stands as a pivotal reform for ensuring justice is not only served but also seen to be done in a timely manner.
The amendment is crucial for the supremacy of Parliament and reflects a broader movement towards making Pakistan an “exemplary democracy” on the global stage.
She praised the introduction of reforms that would open a new chapter in the judicial system, saying, “With this amendment, justice will be delivered efficiently.”
Public access to justice has been secured, and the independence of the judiciary has been enhanced, she remarked, while also welcoming the termination of the interest clause.
Maryam Nawaz expressed her confidence that these reforms would lead to a stronger, more equitable democratic system in Pakistan, ensuring justice and restoring dignity to Parliament.
The 26th Constitutional Amendment, with its wide-reaching judicial and environmental reforms, has been met with widespread support, and Maryam Nawaz believes it will serve as a foundation for future democratic growth.
The 26th Constitutional Amendment has introduced major reforms, reshaping the judiciary in Pakistan. The amendment outlines significant changes, including the appointment procedure and tenure of the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP).
The newly passed 27-point amendment includes 22 provisions from the government and 5 proposed by the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI). Here are the key details:
Chief Justice Appointment
The Chief Justice of Pakistan will now be appointed by a 12-member parliamentary committee of 8 members from the National Assembly and 4 from the Senate.
The committee will select one of the three most senior judges of the Supreme Court to be the Chief Justice. The selection process requires a two-thirds majority vote, ensuring broad consensus.
If the appointed judge reaches the age of 65 before completing the fixed three-year term, they will retire at that point. The change was made through an amendment to Article 179, which previously only outlined the retirement age.
Judicial Reforms
The creation of constitutional benches in the Supreme Court has been enshrined through the introduction of Article 191A. These benches, composed of senior judges, will exclusively hear constitutional matters, appeals, and suo motu cases. The judicial commission will determine the number of judges to form the bench, and each province will have equal representation as much as possible.
The amendment also introduces a similar system of constitutional benches in High Courts, though the creation of these benches will depend on provincial legislation. Moreover, High Courts will no longer have the authority to take suo motu notices.
Judicial Commission and Other Changes
The Judicial Commission remains intact, with four members of parliament and a representative from civil society added to the structure. A new provision allows the Speaker of the National Assembly to nominate a woman or non-Muslim member to the commission for a two-year term.
Additionally, the power of the judiciary to issue any order for complete justice under Article 187 has been limited. The judiciary can now only issue orders within the constitutional framework.
The ruling rainbow coalition termed the amendment as a significant shift in how the judiciary operates, with increased parliamentary oversight.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Zain Qureshi stated that he had not voted in favor of the 26th constitutional amendment.
In a video statement issued following the approval of the constitutional package in the parliament, Qureshi asserted: “Propaganda is being done against me over the matter.”
“I would like to assure the PTI leadership and masses of my constituency that I cannot even imagine voting in favor of this constitutional package,” he maintained.
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– Omar Ayub sees constitutional amendment ‘attempt to weaken’ judiciary –
Meanwhile, Opposition Leader in National Assembly Omar Ayub asserted that the constitutional amendment is an attempt to "weaken" the judiciary.
Expressing his thoughts during the NA session in the wee hours of Monday, Ayub said: "Intezar Panjotha to date is missing. Riaz Fatyana's son had been abducted twice."
Ayub lamented: “Why not the constitutional amendment could be passed on October 31?" Was the country would have closed if the amendment passed subsequently?”
“The constitutional amendment’s draft should have been dispatched to the standing committee and law and justice,” he stated.
“The real objective of the special committee had not been used,” Ayub said.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that the parliament had set the template for embracing national integration after the Senate and National Assembly passed the 26th constitutional amednment.
Expressing his thoughts during the key NA session in the wee hours of Monday, the premier expressed his gratitude to the allies following the passing of the constitutional package. “The constitutional amendment will pave way for the robust future of the country,” he added.
He acknowledged the role of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari in the historical moment in the country’s political landscape. “Bilawal Bhutto had put in a lot of hard work and dedication to ensure the amendments get passed from the parliament.”
“The name of one judge had been taken in the session. I don’t know what he used to talk about. That judge tendered his resignation,” he added.
Speaking about former prime minister Benazir Bhutto and PML-N President Nawaz Sharif, PM Shehbaz said: “The dream of both Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif has come true.”
“It had been decided today that the parliament has supremacy,” he added.
Meanwhile, the premier had signed on the constitutional amendment bill approved by the parliament.
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A ceremony for the signing of the 26th Constitutional Amendment Act Bill is scheduled to take place at the Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad today (Monday).
The time of the event had changed. It is expected that the event will take place during the day. However, the time had not been decided.
The event was scheduled to begin at 6:00 am, where President Asif Ali Zardari will formally endorse the bill following its approval by the Senate and National Assembly.
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– Govt has invited PTI on many accounts –
Separately, earlier on Sunday Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) senior leader Sherry Rehman said that the incumbent government has invited the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for special committee on many occasions.
Expressing her thoughts during the key Senate session, Rehman said: "The PTI had no proposals over the constitutional amendment in 10 meetings of the parliamentary committee.
She acknowledged the role of the PPP leadership, stating, "The PPP had a laid the foundation of the constitution. 80 percent of the clauses of the charter of democracy were included through the charter of democracy."
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman commended all political parties, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), for their collaborative efforts in successfully passing crucial constitutional amendment.
Expressing his thoughts during the key National Assembly session in the wee hours of Monday, Rehman highlighted the discussions stemmed from the issues concerning the Supreme Court judges' aspirations for extended terms.
Fazl brought the matter to the legislative floor, advocating for a constitutional amendment aimed at ensuring harmonious operations between the legislature and judiciary.
He emphasised the significance of the Charter of Democracy, a document he signed to promote a unified political consensus, which called for a constitutional court but lamented the emergence of divisive forums that contradicted its principles.
“The constitution will remain steadfast, even amid shifting political landscapes,” Fazl asserted, underlining the enduring nature of constitutional commitments between the nation and its provinces. He characterized the Constitution as sacred, noting that amendments become increasingly challenging as its importance is upheld.
He condemned the mistreatment of any political leader and expressed regret for not having condemned such actions sooner.
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Defence Minister Khawaja Asif emphasised the importance of restoring the “respect and dignity” of parliament following the Senate's passage of key constitutional amendments.
Expressing his thoughts during the key National Assembly session in the wee hours of Monday, Asif said: "Maintaining consistency in political behavior is essential for achieving the respect and dignity that the legislature seeks."
The defence minister underscored that these constitutional changes are not a new initiative from the government but rather a continuation of the charter of democracy, a historic agreement signed by all political leaders, including the PTI founder.
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Earlier, Asif hoped that judiciary will shift its focus from politics to ensure immediate justice for the citizens following the approval of the constitutional amendment from the Senate.
Expressing his thoughts, Asif said: "The Senate has approved a pivotal amendment and the National Assembly will follow suit shortly."
Asif stated: "The parliamentary democratic system will be liberated from judicial dominance."
"The power that belongs to the people, after the Higher Power’s decree will be freed from the clutches of the judiciary," Asif maintained.
"They [PTI leaders] will vote for the package due to some reasons," he added.
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari lamented that the judiciary had "unconstitutionally assumed powers.".
Expressing his thoughts during the National Assembly session, the former foreign minister said: "The judiciary has become a mockery of our legal system globally."
He described former chief justice of Pakistan Iftikhar Chaudhry, as a "black snake" threatening the foundations of the Constitution and democracy.
He went on to highlight the need for constitutional reforms, referring to previous threats by Chaudhry to discard the 18th Amendment, which could further undermine democratic progress. "We are on the verge of establishing a constitutional bench that will prioritize the people's interests," he added.
Bhutto-Zardari urged all parties, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), to support crucial amendment proposed by JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman. "Let’s come together for the sake of the constitution and democracy," he implored.
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Opposition Leader in National Assembly Omar Ayub asserted that the constitutional amendment is an attempt to "weaken" the judiciary.
Expressing his thoughts during the NA session in the wee hours of Monday, Ayub said: "Intezar Panjotha to date is missing. Riaz Fatyana's son had been abducted twice."
Ayub lamented: “Why not the constitutional amendment could be passed on October 31?" Was the country would have closed if the amendment passed subsequently?”
“The constitutional amendment’s draft should have been dispatched to the standing committee and law and justice,” he stated.
“The real objective of the special committee had not been used,” Ayub said.
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Defence Minister Khawaja Asif hoped on Sunday that judiciary will shift its focus from politics to ensure immediate justice for the citizens following the approval of the constitutional amendment from the Senate.
Expressing his thoughts, Asif said: "The Senate has approved a pivotal amendment and the National Assembly will follow suit shortly."
Asif stated: "The parliamentary democratic system will be liberated from judicial dominance."
"The power that belongs to the people, after the Higher Power’s decree will be freed from the clutches of the judiciary," Asif maintained.
"They [PTI leaders] will vote for the package due to some reasons," he added.
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Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Barrister Ali Zafar on Sunday asked Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani to not consider the vote of any of the PTI members on the package."
Expressing his thoughts during the key Senate session, Zafar said: "It has been rumored that some of our companions will be present before the parliament. It is unfair to take the vote for the constitutional amendment by "compelling" people.
"They [PTI leaders] will vote for the package due to some reasons," he added.
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He said, "It is decided during our party's parliamentary meeting that we will not support the constitutional amendment bill."
"We did ensure our participation in the parliamentary committee but proposed none of the amendments," he maintained.
Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar on Sunday introduced the long-awaited 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill 2024 in the Senate. The bill includes several key changes aimed at enhancing various aspects of governance and legal frameworks in Pakistan.
Below are the salient features of the bill:
Right to clean and healthy environment:
Elimination of riba (Interest):
Judicial Independence and Protection:
Revised procedure for appointment of judges:
Organising elections:
Judicial evaluation and accountability:
Retirement age and tenure of Chief Justice of Pakistan:
Appointment criteria for SC:
The National Assembly has successfully passed the long-awaited 26th Constitutional Amendment in the wee hours of Monday, following a marathon session of the Senate.
According to details, with a resounding vote of 225 in favor and only 12 against, the amendment is considered to be a significant achievement for the incumbent government, with a two-thirds majority in the parliament.
The NA session had been postponed till Tuesday at 5:00 pm.
Meanwhile, a ceremony for the signing of the 26th Constitutional Amendment Act Bill is scheduled to take place at the Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad today (Monday).
The event is scheduled to begin at 6:00 am, where President Asif Ali Zardari will formally endorse the bill following its approval by the Senate and National Assembly.
Earlier, expressing his thoughts during the key NA session, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar had said the establishment of the judicial commission that will include top legal officials and senior judges.
"The Attorney General and representatives from the Pakistan Bar will also be part of the Commission," Tarar confirmed.
He said, "Three of the most senior judges from the Supreme Court will join the judicial commission."
"The chief justice will lead the judicial commission," he added.
Acknowledging the efforts of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Tarar stated, "Bilawal Bhutto has worked tirelessly for the constitutional amendment."
He had also credited JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, saying, "Maulana Fazlur Rehman played a crucial role in achieving consensus on the draft."
The law minister said: "The constitutional benches for the high courts have been introduced."
"We will decide on appointments of judges in the higher judiciary through collective consultation," Tarar said.
"When chief justices with six or seven years of experience came, we all witnessed what transpired," he lamented.
The chief justice's tenure has been capped at three years.
Following a brief recess, the National Assembly session resumed, where these crucial reforms were discussed in detail.
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Earlier, after numerous delays and debates, the Senate had approved the Constitution (26th Amendment) Act, 2024, endorsing 22 clauses of the legislation.
Known as the constitutional package, it has included proposals such as extending the chief justice's term. A parliamentary committee with diverse party representation had been reviewing various suggestions, culminating in today’s approval from the federal cabinet, supported by coalition partners, emphasising national development and public welfare.
Earlier, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar tabled the 26th constitutional amendment in the Senate.
According to details, the Senate session started on Sunday after the long delay in connection with the tabling of the constitutional amendment.
Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani chaired a key Senate session.
64 of the senators were present during the session.
The 65 lawmakers extended their support to ensure the passing of the constitutional amendment. Out of 65, 58 government lawmakers, five JUI-F leaders, and two BNP senators had voted for the amendment.
Meanwhile, the PTI, SIC, and MWM had decided against voting for the amendment.
Five of the JUI-F amendments were also approved.
Subsequently, Senate session had adjourned until Tuesday (October 22).
– PTI will not vote on constitutional amendment, reiterates Barrister Gohar –
Earlier on Sunday, hours before the Senate session, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan reiterated that his party will not vote on the constitutional amendment.
Speaking to media flanked by JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Khan said: "We have made considerations on the draft proposed by the government. We understand the matters pertaining to the constitutional amendment with depth."
"Bringing the amendment in the constitution is a serious matter," he added.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan reiterated on Sunday that his party will not vote on the constitutional amendment.
Speaking to the media flanked by JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Khan said: "We have made considerations on the draft proposed by the government. We understand the matters pertaining to the constitutional amendment with depth."
"Bringing the amendment in the constitution is a serious matter," he added.
Acknowledging the role of Rehman, Khan said: "We would like to express our gratitude to Fazlur Rehman on behalf of the PTI."
"Maulana Fazlur Rehman has shown great tolerance," he added.
"It is been while that we are meeting with Maulana Fazlur Rehman," he stated.
Read Also: 'Govt wants to take Fazlur Rehman on board over constitutional amendment'
Meanwhile, expressing his thoughts, Rehman said, "We have agreed on the constitutional package. I had made a principled stance in the assembly. The constitution does not belong to any single entity, but to the to the masses."
"It is the PTI's fundamental right to disagree over the constitutional amendment, which we support," he added.
"There has been no tussle over the draft of the bill," he added.
– JI's stance on constitutional package –
Earlier, in the wee hours of Sunday, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman said on Sunday that the nation will not accept 'any deal' between the government and opposition on the constitutional amendment.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter) in the wee hours, Rehman said: "If the pressure is being mounted on the lawmakers, then their names should be surfaced and appear before the apex court."
"The political parties want to save themselves by spreading chaos in the country," Rehman added.
He maintained: "The JI was asking the opposition to not become part of this process."
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is facing internal communication challenges as the party is unable to establish contact with 11 of its members, including two senators and 8 to 9 National Assembly members, ahead of a critical vote on the 26th Constitutional Amendment.
Chairman PTI, Barrister Gauhar, confirmed communication with only two senators, but efforts to reach others, such as Senator Faisal Saleem and Dr. Zarqa Taimur Suhrawardy, have been unsuccessful. Party sources also revealed that prominent members, including Zain Qureshi, Zahoor Qureshi, Brigadier (R) Aslam Ghaman, Usman Ali, Riyaz Fathiana, Moqdad Hussain, and Chaudhry Ilyas, remain out of contact.
In addition, Aurangzeb Khan Khachi and Mubarak Zeb Khan are also unreachable, raising concerns within the party about their availability for the upcoming vote. The missing communication with these key members has heightened uncertainty as PTI strategizes its stance on the proposed constitutional changes.
The federal cabinet approved the draft of the much-awaited 26th constitutional amendment Sunday.
A federal cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.. After this, the Constitutional Amendments will be presented in the National Assembly and the Senate.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed the federal cabinet's approval of the 26th Constitutional Amendment as a crucial step for Pakistan’s development and stability.
In his address, the Prime Minister congratulated the entire nation, emphasizing that the cabinet’s decision was made in the country's broader interest, while remaining faithful to their oath of office.
"With the grace of Allah, we have now crossed another milestone of constitutional stability and the rule of law, following significant progress in the economy," said Prime Minister Shehbaz.
He reaffirmed his commitment to continue working for Pakistan’s development, prosperity, and stability.
The Prime Minister also extended his gratitude to the leaders of all coalition parties for their cooperation, specifically appreciating the efforts of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and senior leaders Rana Sanaullah and Ataullah Tarar, for their roles in this significant achievement.
Bilawal Bhutto praises Maulana Fazlur Rehman's support for Constitutional Amendment
Pakistan People's Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed his gratitude to Maulana Fazlur Rehman for his crucial support in advancing the amendment process.
Bilawal stated that there are no longer any controversial points in the amendment and appreciated Maulana’s role in ensuring its smooth passage.
Bilawal Bhutto said that he contacted Maulana Fazlur Rehman via phone today to thank him for his cooperation. He remarked that Maulana’s contributions will be remembered in history, especially for instructing his senators to support the amendment by participating in the legislative process.
PPP chairman's acknowledgment of Maulana's key role signals the importance of cross-party collaboration in pushing through significant constitutional changes.
He congratulated the media on the occasion of the ‘26th Constitutional Amendment Day’.
Strict security arrangements have been implemented for today’s sessions of the Senate and National Assembly, with a number of restrictions on entry and media coverage.
According to a spokesman, the entry of guests into the sessions has been prohibited as part of enhanced security measures.
Only media representatives holding press gallery cards will be allowed to enter Parliament, while strict guidelines have been issued to prevent the making of video footage or mobile recordings in both the Senate and National Assembly press galleries.
The Senate Media Directorate has appealed to all parliamentary reporters to cooperate with the regulations, emphasizing the prohibition on mobile footage from the press gallery.
Similarly, the National Assembly Media Directorate has issued a directive that any media representative found making videos will have their mobile phones confiscated, in line with the Speaker's ruling.
These measures are aimed at maintaining the integrity and security of the sessions while ensuring that reporting is conducted within the set guidelines.
The ratification of the 26th Constitutional Amendment is encountering significant challenges as a two-thirds majority, amounting to 224 votes, is required for approval in the National Assembly. Currently, the government coalition holds 215 seats, leaving them short of the necessary votes.
The Speaker of the National Assembly is not eligible to cast a vote, meaning the coalition needs to secure at least four additional votes. Although the addition of eight members from Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) to the opposition alliance complicates the situation further, it highlights the current political dynamics.
The government coalition consists of 111 members from the Pakistan Muslim League (N), 70 members from the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), 22 members from MQM Pakistan, and five from the Muslim League (Q), along with contributions from the Stability Pakistan Party and other smaller factions.
On the opposition side, eight members from JUI, alongside various independent members and other parties, collectively contribute to a total of 91 opposition votes. With such a tight balance of power, the upcoming discussions surrounding the constitutional amendment promise to be contentious as both sides strategize to achieve their goals.
Both the National Assembly and Senate will hold meetings today, with the Senate session scheduled for 3pm and the National Assembly to convene at 6pm.
The agenda for the sessions has been released, outlining key points for discussion.
The National Assembly session will address a 9-point agenda, which includes the proposed amendment bill for the establishment of a legal aid and justice authority.
The highly anticipated 26th constitutional amendment bill is not included in the initial agenda for the National Assembly session.
However, it is expected to be presented under a supplementary agenda later during the proceedings.
National Assembly agenda
The session will begin with the traditional Tilawat, Hadith, Naat, and the national anthem, followed by the question and answer session from a separate list.
Key items on the agenda include a Calling Attention Notice submitted by Syed Naveed Qamar, Syed Rafiullah, Abdul Qadir Patel, Aijaz Hussain Jakhrani, and Izbal Zehri, urging the Minister for Finance and Revenue to address public concerns regarding the alleged large-scale misappropriation in the collection of General Sales Tax.
The assembly will also focus on legislative business, with Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, Minister for Law and Justice, moving to consider and pass the Legal Aid and Justice Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2024. The amendment aims to update the existing Legal Aid and Justice Authority Act, 2020.
Further, the assembly will continue its discussion on a motion of thanks for the President's address to both houses on 18th April 2024. Matters under Rule 18, unrelated to Points of Order, may also be raised during the session.
Additionally, a second Calling Attention Notice will be presented by Ms. Sofia Saeed Shah, Ms. Nikhat Shakeel Khan, Muhammad Moin Aamer Pirzada, and Syed Waseem Hussain, highlighting the urgent public issue of non-payment of pensionary benefits to retired employees of Radio Pakistan.
The session promises to address several significant concerns affecting the public and legislative matters.
The proposed draft of the 26th constitutional amendment by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) has been made public, introducing significant changes to the appointment of the Chief Justice of Pakistan. According to the draft, the most senior judge will automatically assume the position of Chief Justice, eliminating the need for a panel of judges.
The 27-point JUI-F draft does not mention the establishment of a 12-member parliamentary committee for judicial appointments. It also removes the concept of a panel of three judges, instead stating that the senior-most judge will be appointed as Chief Justice.
Under Article 175A, the draft proposes that the Chief Justice of Pakistan will chair the Judicial Council, with three senior Supreme Court judges, the Law Minister, and the Attorney General as members. Additionally, the Supreme Judicial Council will include four members of parliament and one female or non-Muslim member.
JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, in a media briefing yesterday, said that opposition parties, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have requested time until tomorrow to present their response. Afterward, the constitutional amendment will be presented in parliament for approval.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman further stated that all objections raised by the opposition regarding the government’s draft have been addressed and excluded. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari added that the opposition is keen for JUI-F to present the 26th constitutional amendment in parliament for further discussion and approval.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced its decision to boycott the upcoming voting on the controversial constitutional amendment, citing the process as non-transparent. The decision was made during a meeting of PTI's Political Committee, chaired by Barrister Gauhar, where the amendment was deemed destructive for the country's future.
In its statement, PTI declared that the party will completely withdraw from the referendum process in both the Senate and the National Assembly. PTI warned that any members who violate party policy by participating in the polls will face strong internal protests, emphasizing that it will hold peaceful sit-ins against those going against party directives.
The Political Committee condemned the constitutional amendment, accusing the ruling group of cheating in the elections and seizing power undemocratically. PTI asserted that this group has no moral or constitutional authority to alter the constitution. The party stressed the importance of protecting democracy and voiced its strong opposition to the amendments since day one.
The declaration also reiterated that all members of the Senate and National Assembly elected on PTI tickets are obligated to follow the directives of PTI and party chairman Imran Khan. Any deviation from party policy will result in peaceful protests against the individuals involved.
PTI remains committed to resisting what it views as an attempt to distort the constitution.
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that hopefully the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) will extend support on the constitutional amendment.
Addressing the press conference flanked by Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari in the wee hours of Sunday, Rehman said: "Today, we get the PTI's response."
Rehman said: "I got a positive message from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder, on which I express my gratitude."
"We will be able to vote during the parliament sessions. We are waiting for today over the matter," said Rehman.
"There is no major controversy over the draft," said Rehman.
Both the PPP and JUI-F had reached the consensus on the constitutional amendment. The government has agreed to withdraw the areas of the initial draws on which we had raised objections.
Fazl seeks one day
Meanwhile, Bhutto-Zardari said: "It is my desire that Fazlur Rehman himself presents the bill. I hope that Maulana Fazlur Rehmman will convince the PTI over the matter."
"Hopefully, Maulana Fazlur Rehman will agree to my request," he added.
Earlier on Saturday, it was reported that Rehman had sought one day to table the constitutional amendment.
According to details, Rehman's residence has emerged as a political hub as members of both the government and opposition converge to discuss the 26th constitutional amendment.
With unanimous approval on the horizon, law minister Azam Nazeer Tarar delivered the final draft of the amendment directly to Fazlur Rehman.
The atmosphere at the JUI-F chief's residence had been charged, with various political leaders making intermittent visits throughout the day.
The Senate and National Assembly sessions were postponed as the political temperature rose pertaining to the 26th constitutional amendment in the wee hours of Sunday.
It was reported that the federal cabinet meeting was postponed till Sunday's morning. But later, the reports had surfaced that it is expected that cabinet meetings will take place after some time.
Subsequently, the special meeting of the federal cabinet, spearheaded by PM Shehbaz had been started.
According to details, the approval of the constitutional amendment draft will be given. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) stalwart Rana Sanaullah had also reached the prime minister's chamber.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal and Chaudhry Salik Hussain had also reached the chamber.
Cabinet Division Secretary Kamran Ali Afzal had also reached to attend the cabinet meeting.
On this occasion, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar apprised the premier of the meeting held with JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman.
Meanwhile, Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi returned from the chamber.
Details revealed that the NA session will be held 6:00 pm today (Sunday).
Earlier, the Senate session began in an attempt to pass the constitutional amendment. Subsequently, after the long delay, the Senate session was postponed till 3:00 pm today.
– Fazl seeks one day –
Meanwhile, it had been reported that Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has sought one day to table the constitutional amendment.
According to details, Rehman's residence has emerged as a political hub as members of both the government and opposition converge to discuss the 26th constitutional amendment.
With unanimous approval on the horizon, law minister Azam Nazeer Tarar delivered the final draft of the amendment directly to Fazlur Rehman.
The atmosphere at the JUI-F chief's residence had been charged, with various political leaders making intermittent visits throughout the day.
The reports suggested that the constitutional amendment may receive approval as early as tonight.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has met with Fazlur Rehman twice, declaring after their first meeting that consensus had been reached between the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and JUI on the amendment. Following this, a series of high-profile visits ensued, including Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who later joined discussions at the residence of PPP leader Syed Naveed Qamar.
Key figures such as Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar, Sherry Rehman, Murtaza Wahab, and BNP Mengal chief Akhtar Mengal have also engaged with Rehman as the political landscape shifts in anticipation of the amendment's finalization.
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has sought one day to table the constitutional amendment.
According to details, Rehman's residence has emerged as a political hub as members of both the government and opposition converge to discuss the 26th constitutional amendment.
With unanimous approval on the horizon, law minister Azam Nazeer Tarar delivered the final draft of the amendment directly to Fazlur Rehman.
The atmosphere at the JUI-F chief's residence had been charged, with various political leaders making intermittent visits throughout the day.
The reports suggested that the constitutional amendment may receive approval as early as tonight.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has met with Fazlur Rehman twice, declaring after their first meeting that consensus had been reached between the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and JUI on the amendment. Following this, a series of high-profile visits ensued, including Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who later joined discussions at the residence of PPP leader Syed Naveed Qamar.
Key figures such as Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar, Sherry Rehman, Murtaza Wahab, and BNP Mengal chief Akhtar Mengal have also engaged with Rehman as the political landscape shifts in anticipation of the amendment's finalization.
Former federal minister Faisal Vawda said on Saturday that the 26th constitutional amendment will be passed in the parliament at any cost.
Speaking to media in Islamabad, the former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) stalwart said: “It takes no time to become zero from hero. They will continue to lament, and the amendment will be passed.”
He bashed the PTI leadership, saying, “All of us have seen the faces of the sell-outs. The PTI has practically accepted the incumbent government.”
“The PTI had sat with the government and demanded with the party founder,” he stated.
Vawda maintained: “These people are themselves enjoying sending the PTI founder packed.”
– Faisal Vawda scoffs at PTI for 'spreading' unrest –
Few days back, Vawda scoffed at the PTI for "spreading" unrest in the country.
Expressing his thought, Vawda took a jibe at the PTI founder, saying, "The PTI founder merely wants to rule the country. Challenging the writ of the government is equal to treason. Let's see who will win the political battle, and whose politics will end?"
Vawda continued to fire salvo at the PTI founder, saying, "The PTI founder is facing the heat as the country is getting back on track.”
“The PTI founder should refrain from playing with the poor children of the country. First of all, the PTI founder should bring his children to Pakistan," he maintained.
“Now the things are getting out of control. The PTI founder is talking about getting rid of freedom and slavery,” he stated.
“The drama of holding protests is being staged to take away the lives of the poor citizens,” Vawda said.
He slammed Khyber Pakhtunkha Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, saying, "Ali Amin Gandapur is trying to put the country's law and order situation at stake."
"The purpose of staging the protest is to take the lives of the innocent citizens. The law and constitution are being violated in the country. The judiciary should take notice of the violation of law and constitution."
"Nobody can even dare to stop Pakistan from steering towards prosperity," he said.
The federal government decided on Saturday to table the much-awaited constitutional amendment today in the Senate and National Assembly.
Sources divulged that the government alliance and the parliament had reached consensus on the matter. It is expected that the National Assembly and Senate sessions will be held for a long time at night.
It was for the fourth time that the National Assembly session was delayed and will now be held at 9:30 pm.
Prior to this, the National Assembly session was convened at 3:00 pm but could not start.
Separately, the Senate session was also delayed for the fourth time and now had been summoned at 8:00 pm.
Senator Irfan Siddiqui of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) stated that the draft for the constitutional amendment is prepared and awaits approval from the federal cabinet before it can be submitted to the Senate.
He stressed the need for a broader consensus, recalling that post-thirteenth amendment, it became customary for all political factions to agree on such matters.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif echoed this sentiment, asserting that while the numbers are in favor of the amendment, reaching a collective agreement remains a priority.
Adding to the concerns, Akhtar Mengal, leader of the Balochistan National Party (BNP-Mengal), criticized the government's approach, asserting that the amendments are being pushed through in a secretive manner, devoid of robust consultation.
Meanwhile, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari held discussions with delegations from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and BNP-Mengal at the residence of Maulana Fazlur Rehman, head of Jamiat Ulema Islam (F), indicating ongoing negotiations to build a consensus.
In a previous Senate meeting, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) Senator Maulana Atta-ur-Rehman highlighted the missing presence of several party members, expressing concern over the tactics employed in the discussions surrounding the constitutional amendment. Irfan Siddiqui assured him that the issues raised would be addressed.
As the political landscape remains charged, Syed Khurshid Shah, chairman of the special committee formed to deliberate on the constitutional amendment, claimed that the draft has received general approval.
However, the constant postponements raise questions about the government's ability to move forward with the proposed changes.
Despite previous announcements indicating the government's intent to introduce the constitutional amendment in the Senate ahead of the National Assembly, procedural delays have pushed this timeline further into uncertainty.
As it stands, the approval and subsequent presentation of the 26th constitutional amendment bill remain pending, with political stakeholders navigating a complex and often contentious landscape.
Key items on the National Assembly’s agenda include the presentation of the Legal Aid and Justice Authority Amendment Bill 2024 for approval and call-attention notices regarding alleged large-scale malpractices in the collection of general sales tax.
Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Talal Chaudhry stated on Saturday that the sun will rise tomorrow morning with the approval of the constitutional amendment.
Addressing the press conference in Islamabad, Chaudhry said: “Our efforts to reach consensus on the constitutional amendment have been portrayed as our weakness. This time around, the parliament has given plenty of sacrifices.”
He took a swipe at the embattled Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Chaudhry said: “The PTI leaders have caused the old uproar during their press conference. At last, the PTI leaders have done what they wanted to do.”
“The PTI had resorted to the tactics of sabotaging the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Look at the vision and mindset of the PTI leadership that they are lamenting about the facilities during the consultations,” Chaudhry maintained.
He said, “How can you stop the government from completing the number games over the constitutional amendment? No one had been kidnapped. This constitution was slated to be tabled a while ago.”
“The timing of the SC’s clarification is no right. Maybe the clarification has been issued to stop the tabling of the constitutional amendment,” Chaudhry said.
Pakistan People's Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari confirmed on Saturday that his party has reached a complete agreement with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) regarding constitutional amendments.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, he stated that the draft proposed by JUI chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has been accepted without any alterations.
Mr Bilawal also stressed that this development aims to strengthen the parliament. "We are making the parliament stronger," he remarked, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in constitutional reforms.
He reiterated that the PPP has accepted JUI's constitutional amendment draft without changing even a comma, underscoring the seriousness with which they approached the negotiations.
Read here: Mengal refuses to support 'forceful' constitutional amendments
Addressing the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Bhutto urged the party to demonstrate its commitment to the constitutional amendment process.
"We want PTI to join us in discussing this amendment and not to complain later. We hope Maulana Fazlur Rehman will succeed in persuading PTI to participate," he added.
Bhutto mentioned that discussions surrounding changes to the Islamic Ideological Council were ongoing, indicating that Maulana Fazlur Rehman would be instrumental in incorporating additional elements into the Majlis Shura. He expressed optimism about PTI's involvement, noting that a consultation took place with the party's founder earlier in the day.
RELATED: PTI top guns meet Imran in Adiala Jail to discuss constitutional amendments
The PPP leader revealed that there has been continuous dialogue with Maulana Fazlur Rehman regarding judicial reforms, stating, "We have reached an agreement on constitutional benches."
He stressed that the process of constitution-making is progressing successfully after extensive consultations.
Bhutto also commended the collaborative efforts to achieve political consensus, which he described as essential for empowering both the constitution and parliament.
"The draft has been prepared as Maulana Fazlur Rehman desired, and I want him to present it in the parliament himself," he concluded, expressing hope for a unified approach to the legislative process.
The ongoing discussions regarding the 26th constitutional amendment have led to repeated schedule changes for Senate and National Assembly sessions.
The Senate session has now been rescheduled for the third time, with the latest notification from the Senate Secretariat indicating a new start time of 6:30 PM, previously set for 3:00 PM. The National Assembly will convene at 7:00 PM.
The Senate had been adjourned yesterday until 11:00 AM today, but the timing was quickly adjusted to 12:30 PM before yet another change pushed it to 3:00 PM.
This continued back-and-forth reflects the complex negotiations surrounding the proposed constitutional amendments, which have not yet garnered sufficient agreement among the parties involved.
Read here: Mengal refuses to support 'forceful' constitutional amendments
Senator Irfan Siddiqui of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) stated that the draft for the constitutional amendment is prepared and awaits approval from the federal cabinet before it can be submitted to the Senate.
He stressed the need for a broader consensus, recalling that post-thirteenth amendment, it became customary for all political factions to agree on such matters.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif echoed this sentiment, asserting that while the numbers are in favor of the amendment, reaching a collective agreement remains a priority.
RELATED: PTI top guns meet Imran in Adiala Jail to discuss constitutional amendments
Adding to the concerns, Akhtar Mengal, leader of the Balochistan National Party (BNP-Mengal), criticized the government's approach, asserting that the amendments are being pushed through in a secretive manner, devoid of robust consultation.
Meanwhile, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari held discussions with delegations from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and BNP-Mengal at the residence of Maulana Fazlur Rehman, head of Jamiat Ulema Islam (F), indicating ongoing negotiations to build a consensus.
In a previous Senate meeting, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) Senator Maulana Atta-ur-Rehman highlighted the missing presence of several party members, expressing concern over the tactics employed in the discussions surrounding the constitutional amendment. Irfan Siddiqui assured him that the issues raised would be addressed.
As the political landscape remains charged, Syed Khurshid Shah, chairman of the special committee formed to deliberate on the constitutional amendment, claimed that the draft has received general approval.
However, the constant postponements raise questions about the government's ability to move forward with the proposed changes.
Despite previous announcements indicating the government's intent to introduce the constitutional amendment in the Senate ahead of the National Assembly, procedural delays have pushed this timeline further into uncertainty.
As it stands, the approval and subsequent presentation of the 26th constitutional amendment bill remain pending, with political stakeholders navigating a complex and often contentious landscape.
Key items on the National Assembly’s agenda include the presentation of the Legal Aid and Justice Authority Amendment Bill 2024 for approval and call-attention notices regarding alleged large-scale malpractices in the collection of general sales tax.
Also Read: Constitutional amendment: President Zardari, PM Shehbaz hold key huddle in capital
Another call-attention notice is likely to be presented regarding non-payment of pensions to retired employees of Radio Pakistan, while a discussion will also be held on the president's address to the joint session of parliament.
It is worth noting that the special parliamentary committee on Friday approved the draft of the constitutional amendments. According to details, the development came after efforts were made to reach a consensus on the draft among multiple parties.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior leaders on Saturday called on party's founder Imran Khan at Adiala Jail to discuss the constitutional amendments proposed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led government.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar confirmed that the consultation with Khan was fruitful and emphasized that further discussions would follow.
RELATED: 5 PTI leaders granted permission to meet Imran Khan
He stated, "We had a meeting and consultation with the founder of PTI. After this, we will hold additional consultations to outline our next steps."
When questioned about whether Imran Khan had approved the constitutional amendment, Barrister Gohar indicated that further details would be shared in collaboration with Maulana Fazlur Rehman.
He reassured the media, saying, "Imran Khan is absolutely fine," dismissing any concerns regarding the former prime minister's health.
Earlier, access to Khan was granted to five PTI leaders who insisted on meeting him collectively. Sources revealed that the party leadership had initially refused to proceed to Adiala Jail until all five leaders were granted permission, demonstrating a united front among the party ranks.
Balochistan National Party (BNP-Mengal) Chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal on Saturday categorically rejected the proposed constitutional amendments being discussed in secrecy, asserting that he will not participate in any changes imposed by force.
After a meeting with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in Islamabad, the seasoned politician expressed his concerns regarding the current political climate, stating, "We cannot negotiate with anyone until our missing members of parliament return."
He stressed that the situation is far from conducive for any form of negotiation, particularly when threats loom over political discourse.
Mr Mengal slated the government’s approach to the amendments, remarking, "Constitutional changes are being introduced in a clandestine manner, raising questions about the true authorship of these amendments."
He pointed out that after 51 years since the enactment of the 1973 Constitution, it is perplexing that sudden amendments are deemed necessary. "What kind of emergency justifies such secretive alterations?" he queried.
During a press briefing in Islamabad following the meeting, Mengal lamented the ongoing state of emergency and the government's singular focus on amending the constitution while neglecting critical issues affecting citizens. "The constitution is not a secret document; it should be transparent and accessible to every citizen," he asserted.
Mengal further criticised the current administration for attempting to conceal the content of the amendments, suggesting that the ruling class is embarrassed to disclose them to the public.
"Political parties and their workers have the right to be informed about the constitution they are governed by," he added.
Highlighting the troubling methods reportedly employed by the government, Mengal condemned the harassment and abduction of party members, stating, "Is this a democratic process? Such practices have no place in any democratic nation."
He questioned whether the amendments stem from the government, its allies, or from factions historically opposed to the constitution, labeling their actions as threats to democratic norms.
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif revealed on Saturday that while the numbers needed for the proposed constitutional amendment are complete, efforts to reach a consensus among political parties remain ongoing.
Speaking to journalists, Khawaja Asif stressed the importance of political agreement, stating, "It is better if we can achieve consensus on the 26th constitutional amendment. This will make it more beneficial in the future. However, even if a consensus is not reached, we still have the necessary numbers."
Responding to a question about the frequent changes to the National Assembly's schedule, the defense minister explained that the adjustments are part of ongoing efforts to foster consensus among political stakeholders.
Earlier, PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui informed the press that the draft of the constitutional amendment has been completed and is pending approval from the federal cabinet. "The draft is ready.
The federal cabinet was scheduled to approve it yesterday, but the meeting was cut short. Once the cabinet gives its approval, the draft will move to the Senate," he said.
The delay in the cabinet’s approval has fueled uncertainty, with a scheduled cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ending without a final decision on the constitutional amendment. The meeting was adjourned and is expected to resume later today at 9:30 AM.
Meanwhile, efforts to build consensus within the governing coalition continue, as tensions remain high. The Senate session, originally scheduled for 12:30 PM, has been postponed to 3:00 PM, according to a notification from the Senate Secretariat.
Despite the government's optimism, opposition parties have maintained their opposition to the proposed amendment. Protests over the alleged harassment of opposition lawmakers continued in both the National Assembly and Senate, with opposition leaders vowing not to support the bill under current circumstances.
Political activity surged late into the night at Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s residence as leaders from various parties convened to discuss the approval of the 26th constitutional amendment with consensus.
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari held an hour-long meeting with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F (JUI-F) chief Fazlur Rehman, during which the Maulana addressed concerns raised by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party regarding the amendments.
Sources indicate that the JUI-F chief briefed Bilawal on the PTI’s reservations, emphasizing the importance of collective agreement in moving forward.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and senior PPP leader Naveed Qamar also met with Maulana Fazlur Rehman to further discuss the constitutional amendments and ensure all parties were on the same page. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar also met with Fazl separately, only to hold another meeting today.
Meanwhile, a five-member delegation from the PTI is scheduled to meet the party's founding chairman Imran Khan in Adiala Jail today. PTI leader Barrister Ali Zafar noted that the final decision regarding the constitutional amendment draft would depend on consultations with Imran Khan.
“We will come and tell what the founder says about the constitutional amendments,” he remarked.
Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Senator Ali Zafar, Asad Qaiser, Salman Akram Raja, Sahibzada Hamid Raza are scheduled to meet Imran Khan after they were granted permission today. Jail sources say the PTI has to decide the time of the meeting.
The federal cabinet, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is set to meet today to discuss the critical constitutional amendments draft.
The session, originally scheduled for 9:30am, was first delayed till 12 noon and later till 1:30pm, and is expected to approve the draft of the 26th Constitutional Amendment. Moreover, important sessions of the National Assembly and Senate will also be held again today with the constitutional amendments likely to be tabled in both houses for approval.
Meanwhile, the government has given the green signal to the National Assembly Secretariat for getting the amendments approved today.
According to government sources, the Legislature Department has prepared a supplementary agenda related to the introduction of the 26th amendment. This agenda will be presented in both the National Assembly and Senate for approval as soon as the government and speaker give the green signal.
The constitutional amendment is anticipated to be introduced in both legislative bodies by suspending the parliamentary rules. However, the amendment is not currently included in the agenda released for either the Senate or the National Assembly sessions.
Also Read: Parliamentary committee finally greenlights constitutional amendments draft
The Senate session, initially scheduled for 11am and then pushed to 12:30pm, will now be held at 3pm and will be chaired by Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani. The Senate's six-point agenda has been issued, but the constitutional amendment bill is still not part of it.
It is likely that a supplementary agenda will be presented to introduce the bill during the session with approval from the majority of the House.
In addition to the potential introduction of the constitutional amendments, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar will present the Banking Companies Amendment Bill 2024 for Senate approval, and a motion will be moved to suspend the question-hour in the House.
Also Read: Bilawal vows to get amendments approved with two-thirds majority
The National Assembly is also set to convene today at 3pm under the chairmanship of Speaker Ayaz Sadiq. The Secretariat has released a nine-point agenda, which, like the Senate, does not yet include the constitutional amendment bill. However, it is possible that a supplementary agenda could be introduced later during the session.
Key items on the National Assembly’s agenda include the presentation of the Legal Aid and Justice Authority Amendment Bill 2024 for approval and call-attention notices regarding alleged large-scale malpractices in the collection of general sales tax.
Also Read: Constitutional amendment: President Zardari, PM Shehbaz hold key huddle in capital
Another call-attention notice is likely to be presented regarding non-payment of pensions to retired employees of Radio Pakistan, while a discussion will also be held on the president's address to the joint session of parliament.
It is worth noting that the special parliamentary committee on Friday approved the draft of the constitutional amendments. According to details, the development came after efforts were made to reach a consensus on the draft among multiple parties.
The committee meeting was chaired by PPP leader Syed Khursheed Shah.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a key huddle in Islamabad on Friday.
According to details, both the president and premier hold talks on the final draft of the constitutional amendment. PM Shehbaz had also held consultations over the amendment with the senior lawmakers.
He took the lawmakers on board over the meeting with JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman.
The premier held a meeting with Rehman yesterday. On this occasion, he was flanked by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar.
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari had also taken part in the consultations.
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari expressed on Friday optimism about getting the support of JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman in line with the constitutional amendment.
According to details, expressing his thoughts during the PPP’s joint parliamentary meeting with the draft of the constitutional amendment, the former foreign minister said, “We will do the legislation through our powers. It is a good thing that this will be last weekend here in Islamabad.”
“The PPP, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) have reached consensus on the constitutional amendment,” said Bhutto-Zardari.
He maintained: “It is the time to fulfil the incomplete promises pertaining to the charter of democracy.”
Details of the government's draft for the 26th constitutional amendments have surfaced, revealing a significant shift in the process of appointing the chief justice of Pakistan.
The proposed amendments aim to grant authority to a newly formed parliamentary committee to appoint the chief justice, replacing the current seniority condition.
According to the draft, the 12-member parliamentary committee will comprise eight members from the National Assembly and four from the Senate, ensuring adequate representation from all parliamentary parties according to their strengths. In the event of the dissolution of the National Assembly, a special committee of four senators will oversee the appointment process.
Under the new framework, the committee will review the names of the three most senior judges of the Supreme Court for consideration. The prime minister will then forward the committee's recommendation to the president for formal appointment.
Under the proposal, the parliamentary committee will finalise the nomination of the new chief justice 14 days before the retirement of the incumbent. However, only for the first time after the implementation of the amendments, the appointment will be made three days before the current chief justice retires.
Additionally, the draft introduces the creation of a Constitutional Division within the Supreme Court, which will handle constitutional matters such as suo motu cases, constitutional appeals, and presidential references. A three-member bench from this division will hear and decide such cases, marking a departure from the existing practice where any Supreme Court judge could handle constitutional issues.
The Constitutional Division will ensure equal representation of all provinces, with its composition and number of judges being determined by the Judicial Commission.
The draft amendment spans 12 pages and outlines 24 key points aimed at streamlining the judicial process while ensuring broader political involvement in judicial appointments.
Top political leaders gathered at the residence of JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman late last night in a major step towards reaching a national consensus on the proposed constitutional amendments.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar held a crucial meeting with Maulana Fazlur Rehman, while PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari was also present.
The meeting, which lasted for two hours, focused on resolving points of disagreement related to the proposed amendments.
According to sources, Maulana Fazlur Rehman raised concerns about the harassment of members from JUI, BNP Mengal, and PTI, urging the government to address these issues. The government assured the JUI chief that the matters would be resolved amicably.
Also Read: PTI, JUI-F agree on several key points of proposed constitutional amendments
Government sources claimed that several reservations of Maulana Fazlur Rehman have been addressed. "There is now no significant hurdle left in the way of the amendment," the sources said.
The leaders avoided speaking to the media after the meeting, but insiders suggest that further consultations are scheduled for today.
Earlier, a high-level meeting between leaders of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) concluded on a positive note, with both parties agreeing on several key points of a proposed constitutional amendment,
JUI-F head Maulana Fazlur Rahman took the PTI leaders into confidence on a joint draft for the proposed constitutional amendments. According to sources, the PTI agreed on several key points of the government's joint draft, while further discussions on the remaining points are expected in the next round of talks scheduled for today.
Also Read: Govt's proposed constitutional amendment draft allows dual citizens to contest elections
The PTI delegation, which included Omar Ayub, Asad Qaisar, Salman Akram Raja, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Hamid Raza, and Senator Hamid Khan visited the residence of Maulana Fazlur Rehman for the meeting.
After the meeting, Maulana Fazlur Rehman expressed serious reservations about the government's behaviour during the negotiation process. He criticized the government for its alleged harassment of JUI members, including kidnappings and attempts to bribe key figures.
Similarly, PTI leaders raised concerns about the harassment of their own members. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar said, "If the government's attitude remains the same, we will not participate in the process of constitutional amendment."
A high-level meeting between leaders of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) concluded on a positive note, with both parties agreeing on several key points of a proposed constitutional amendment,
JUI-F head Maulana Fazlur Rahman took the PTI leaders into confidence on a joint draft for the proposed constitutional amendments. According to sources, the PTI agreed on several key points of the government's joint draft, while further discussions on the remaining points are expected in the next round of talks scheduled for today.
The PTI delegation, which included Omar Ayub, Asad Qaisar, Salman Akram Raja, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Hamid Raza, and Senator Hamid Khan visited the residence of Maulana Fazlur Rehman for the meeting.
After the meeting, Maulana Fazlur Rehman expressed serious reservations about the government's behaviour during the negotiation process. He criticized the government for its alleged harassment of JUI members, including kidnappings and attempts to bribe key figures.
The JUI chief warned that if such tactics continue, he may halt the negotiation process entirely. "If we are bullied, we will adopt the same attitude," Maulana Fazlur Rehman said, indicating that his party might be forced to take a tough stance if the government's actions do not change.
Similarly, PTI leaders raised concerns about the harassment of their own members. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar said, "If the government's attitude remains the same, we will not participate in the process of constitutional amendment."
He also confirmed that many points had been agreed upon with Maulana Fazlur Rehman and that further discussions will take place in the next meeting.
Meanwhile, the draft of the 26th constitutional amendments proposed by the government allows dual citizens to contest the elections. The draft obtained by Samaa TV comprises 24 key points and suggests major reforms to the judiciary and the electoral framework in the country.
The highlights of the amendment include the establishment of a "constitutional division" within the Supreme Court, which will oversee constitutional appeals and the hearing of cases. A three-member bench, constituted by the three senior-most judges of this division, will handle cases previously under the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.
Also Read: Govt's proposed constitutional amendment draft allows dual citizens to contest elections
The proposed changes emphasize equitable representation of judges from all provinces, aiming for a balanced judicial structure. No Supreme Court judge will have the authority to hear suo motu cases, constitutional appeals, or presidential references independently.
The draft introduced Article 191A, declaring a healthy and sustainable environment a fundamental right. Additionally, amendments to existing articles aim to restrict judicial review of summaries submitted by the prime minister or cabinet and allow dual citizens to contest elections, provided they renounce foreign citizenship within 90 days of being elected.
The reforms had also proposed alterations to the composition and functioning of the judicial commission and the Supreme Judicial Council.
Meanwhile, the measures to ensure accountability, including performance reviews of judges, are part of the comprehensive overhaul. As these proposed changes circulate, they have ignited discussions regarding the future of judicial and electoral integrity in Pakistan.
The draft of the 26th constitutional amendment proposed by the incumbent government allows dual citizens to contest the elections.
According to details, the government’s proposed draft of the 26th Constitutional Amendment has been obtained by Samaa TV. The draft, comprising 12 pages and 24 key points suggests major reforms to the judiciary and the electoral framework in the country.
The highlights of the amendment include the establishment of a "Constitutional Division" within the Supreme Court, which will oversee constitutional appeals and the hearing of cases.
A three-member bench, constituted by the three senior-most judges of this division, will handle cases previously under the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.
The proposed changes emphasize equitable representation of judges from all provinces, aiming for a balanced judicial structure. Notably, no Supreme Court judge will have the authority to hear suo motu cases, constitutional appeals, or presidential references independently.
The draft introduced a new Article 191A, declaring a healthy and sustainable environment a fundamental right. Additionally, amendments to existing articles aim to restrict judicial review of summaries submitted by the prime minister or cabinet and allow dual citizens to contest elections, provided they renounce foreign citizenship within 90 days of being elected.
The reforms had also proposed alterations to the composition and functioning of the judicial commission and the Supreme Judicial Council.
Meanwhile, the measures to ensure accountability, including performance reviews of judges, are part of the comprehensive overhaul.
As these proposed changes circulate, they have ignited discussions regarding the future of judicial and electoral integrity in Pakistan.
The implications of these reforms could reshape the legal landscape, promoting greater transparency and representation within the judiciary and government.
The PPP had rebutted claims that it and other parties are withdrawing from discussions on establishing constitutional courts.
Addressing the media, PPP senior leader and former National Assembly speaker Raja Pervez Ashraf clarified that consultations among political parties are still underway and that a joint draft will soon be presented.
Earlier, a special parliamentary committee, chaired by PPP’s Syed Khurshid Shah, convened on Thursday to deliberate on the draft of the 26th amendment.
According to insiders, the government and JUI-F are preparing a joint draft in consultation with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman will present the final draft to the PTI leadership, with discussions reportedly in the final stages.
The meeting, which lasted several hours, concluded with the committee agreeing to reconvene on Friday after prayers.
MQM-P's endorsement
Dr Farooq Sattar - a leader of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement - Pakistan (MQM-P) - informed reporters outside the Parliament that a broad consensus had been reached on the constitutional amendment. “There is agreement on almost every major point,” Sattar remarked.
Similarly, PPP Senator Sherry Rehman confirmed that her party and JUI-F have aligned on the draft, further noting that progress is being made on the broader coalition’s stance. Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar echoed this optimism, stating that “very good news” was imminent.
Meanwhile, PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui hinted at a breakthrough, expressing confidence that the committee would soon finalize the amendment. "There was productive dialogue today, and most parties, including the PML-N, are on board with the draft," he noted.
PTI’s opposition and allegations
However, PTI remains a critical voice of dissent. PTI leaders Umar Ayub and Barrister Gohar Khan expressed concerns during the committee meeting, accusing the government of using coercion against their members.
Speaking to the media, Omar Ayub alleged that PTI lawmakers and their families were being harassed. He claimed that the wife of PTI MNA Zain Qureshi was abducted, while the son of Riaz Fatyana was kidnapped.
Omar Ayub further criticised the government for threatening businesses linked to opposition members and questioned the involvement of security agencies in these actions.
Irfan Siddiqui says draft to be presented in NA on Friday
Despite PTI’s objections, the government remains focused on pushing through the 26th constitutional amendment. Senator Irfan Siddiqui indicated that the draft, which is nearly 90% complete, will be presented in the Senate by Friday.
Informally addressing journalists, he expressed hope that the process would soon come to a conclusion.
In parallel, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has intensified efforts to ensure the draft's finalization. He met with PPP Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari at the President's House to discuss the proposed changes.
Sharif also hosted a luncheon in honor of the coalition senators, which was attended by key figures including Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani and Deputy Chairman Mirza Afridi.
Meanwhile, Awami National Party’s Ameer Haider Khan Hoti confirmed that while the Constitutional Bench has been agreed upon, discussions on whether to establish a Constitutional Court remain unresolved.
The constitutional amendment
Efforts to pass the 26th Amendment have been ongoing for months. The proposed changes aim to reshape the judiciary’s role in constitutional matters, a move that has sparked widespread debate among lawmakers. Last month, the government’s attempt to pass the amendment was postponed due to a lack of consensus and insufficient support in the National Assembly, where a two-thirds majority is required.
While the ruling coalition remains hopeful of passing the amendment, PTI's opposition and concerns over the alleged misuse of government agencies continue to pose significant challenges.
The special parliamentary committee will meet again on Friday as political manoeuvring around the constitutional amendment intensifies.
In a significant development, prominent religious scholars have expressed their support for constitutional reforms and changes to the justice system in Pakistan.
Secretary General of the Muslim Unity Council, Allama Abu Bakr Qasmi, highlighted the urgent need for a functional justice system to foster a strong, prosperous, and peaceful Pakistan.
He noted that public faith in the current judicial system has eroded, making reform essential, and pledged the council's support to the government in this endeavour.
Similarly, the General Secretary of the Unity of Believers Party, Allama Tayyib Khetran, stressed that the survival, prosperity, and peace of the nation are closely linked to an effective justice system. He urged the government to ensure the provision of justice around the clock, alongside the constitutional amendments.
Peer of Manki Sharif, Sahibzada Pir Amin Qadri, emphasized that addressing Pakistan's current challenges requires collaboration among all political parties and institutions. He warned that the justice system has deteriorated significantly and requires immediate improvement to restore public confidence.
The incumbent government is looking to speed up the process of approving the draft of constitutional amendments on Thursday.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hosted a luncheon in the honour of government senators. Sources divulged that PM Shehbaz and President Asif Ali Zardari also held consultations over the proposed constitutional amendments.
Earlier on Thursday, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) supremo Maulana Fazlur Rehman said: “We had rejected the initial draft, and even today we reject it.”
The constitutional amendment has reached consensus. The country and its constitution will only be saved by taking hard decisions,” he added.
Rehman called for the amendment, which will pave the way for bringing reforms in all the sectors.
“Yesterday, the PPP and JUI-F had almost agreed on the draft,” he said.
“We will also look to reach consensus with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) over the draft. I will also hold talks with the PTI leadership in Islamabad, ” he stated.
Meanwhile, expressing his thoughts, Bhutto-Zardari said, “All the three parties [PML-N, PPP, and JUI-F] have reached the consensus on the judicial reforms.”
“We will table the constitution in the parliament at the right time. The judicial reforms will ensure the interpretation and defense of the constitution,” he stated.
“The PPP is having the clear intentions of bringing the judicial reforms,” Bhutto-Zardari added.
Furthermore, speaking about the constitutional amendment, the deputy prime minister said: “None of the parties have any of their own objectives in line with the constitutional amendment.”
In a significant development for Pakistan’s legal landscape, all major political parties have reached a consensus on the 26th constitutional amendment, focusing on judicial reform and public interest.
The agreement was solidified during a meeting on Tuesday night between Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman and leaders from the Pakistan People's Party (PPP).
Following this, a discussion with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif at Jati Umra confirmed a collaborative approach to the proposed amendments.
Leaders from the three major parties and several smaller parties have expressed complete agreement on the constitutional changes, stating that the establishment of a Federal Constitutional Court or a Federal Constitutional Bench would not alter their goals.
The primary aim is to enhance the judiciary's capacity and efficiency. By creating a separate forum for constitutional and legal cases, the backlog of daily cases, especially in the higher courts, can be significantly reduced.
Legal experts emphasize the urgency of addressing the thousands of pending cases across the country’s courts. The formation of a constitutional court or bench is expected to aid in alleviating these numbers.
It is crucial to clarify that the overarching objectives of the proposed constitutional reforms include establishing a High-Powered Commission for judicial oversight. Claims that the 26th Amendment could impose restrictions on the judiciary are seen as mere propaganda, lacking any substantive basis. Instead, the amendments aim to empower the judiciary, ultimately benefiting the public by facilitating quicker resolutions to ongoing cases.
The Supreme Court has dismissed a petition filed against the proposed constitutional amendments after the petitioners requested to withdraw their case.
A three-member bench, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa, presided over the hearing on Thursday.
Hamid Khan, a senior lawyer representing the petitioners, appeared before the court and formally requested the withdrawal of the application. "We want to withdraw this application," Khan stated.
The CJP remarked that the petition had been filed by six lawyers, and asked whether Hamid Khan’s services were engaged solely for withdrawing it. "Were your services hired only to withdraw the application?" the chief justice asked. He further expressed that he was sure the petitioners must have formally engaged the counsel, questioning whether they had filed a baseless application that now they wanted to withdraw it.
Also Read: Court rejects petition against proposed constitutional amendments
CJP Isa also sought clarification on whether the petitioners were withdrawing the appeal against the registrar's objection or the original application. Hamid Khan confirmed that both the application and the appeal were being withdrawn.
Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa also hinted at his upcoming retirement during a brief conversation with lawyer Abid Zuberi. He noted, "You had one more application," but added, "I did not fix it during my tenure. It will now be fixed after my term ends."
Last week, the Sindh High Court had also dismissed a petition filed by lawyers challenging the proposed constitutional amendments, stating that the court could not intervene in a matter that had yet to be finalised.
During the hearing, Chief Justice Muhammad Shafi Siddiqui remarked that the amendments had not even been passed yet, so the judiciary had no grounds to interfere. He emphasized that elected representatives in the National Assembly, on behalf of the country’s 240 million citizens, were responsible for legislating.
"How can the court intervene when there is no amendment yet?" the chief justice asked, stressing that it was premature to question the legality of the proposal. "How can we determine before the amendment whether it is in accordance with the law or not?"
The petition, filed by Ghulam Rehman Korai and others, sought judicial review of the proposed 26th constitutional amendment. The lawyers argued for the court's intervention, calling for the draft amendment to be presented before Bar Councils and Bar Associations for review before it is debated in the assembly.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced a nationwide protest on Friday (tomorrow) in response to the government's plans to introduce the 26th amendment to the constitution.
The decision was made during a PTI political committee meeting held in Islamabad, where the party leadership firmly stated their opposition to the constitutional changes proposed by the government.
In a declaration issued after the meeting, PTI stated categorically that it did not accept the government's plan to alter the constitution. The party called for protests across the country after Friday prayers, with leaders urging party members and supporters to take to the streets.
During the meeting, the PTI also outlined its strategy for the upcoming National Assembly session. It was decided that only central leaders would participate in the session, with other members abstaining. Opposition leader Omar Ayub announced that he would only attend a special parliamentary party meeting after consulting Maulana Fazlur Rehman on the draft of the proposed amendments.
Also Read: PTI decides to postpone Oct 15 protest amid SCO moot
The PTI's political committee also used the occasion to condemn the treatment of the party's founder, Imran Khan, who remains imprisoned in Adiala Jail. The party expressed strong disapproval of the conditions faced by their leader and called for immediate access for lawyers, family members, and party leaders.
Earlier, the PTI had scheduled a protest for October 15 at Islamabad's D-Chowk, however, it postponed it after much deliberation due to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit being held in the city.
A meeting of the PTI political committee was held where the decision had been taken due to the majority of the opinions of the PTI political committee members. Sources divulged that PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan had discussed the matters pertaining to the governmental offer with the political committee.
Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) on Tuesday agreed on a draft for constitutional amendments.
The announcement was made during a joint press conference in Karachi, where JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari revealed that the two parties have reached a consensus.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman, while addressing the media, praised Bilawal Bhutto's efforts in facilitating the agreement, stating, "Bilawal Bhutto played a crucial role in bringing us together on the constitutional amendments. We aim to gather support from all political forces, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)."
Bilawal Bhutto, in his remarks, confirmed that further consultations are planned with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leadership.
"Maulana Fazlur Rehman will meet Nawaz Sharif tomorrow, and we have also been invited to join for a discussion. I hope this agreement between PPP and JUI-F will serve as the foundation for a broader consensus," Bhutto said.
The PPP chairman added that both parties have historically played a key role in protecting and strengthening the constitution, expressing hope that this cooperation will continue.
"We will meet with Nawaz Sharif to try and form a consensus, and efforts will also be made to secure unanimous approval for the constitutional amendment," he said.
Bilawal Bhutto further emphasised the need for unity among all political parties, stating that the proposed amendments are in the national interest, not for personal or party gains.
The meeting between Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Nawaz Sharif is expected to take place tomorrow, with key decisions anticipated regarding the amendment process.
A session of the National Assembly is expected to be convened on October 18 or 19 to approve the proposed 26th constitutional amendment.
Sources revealed that the National Assembly Secretariat has been directed to make preparations for the crucial meeting.
The amendment aims to bring reforms to the judiciary, a move that has sparked significant opposition from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Despite this resistance, the ruling coalition is pressing ahead with its legislative agenda.
The constitutional amendment bill requires a two-thirds majority—224 votes—for approval in the 342-member National Assembly. However, the ruling coalition's strength currently stands at 215 members, falling short of the required number.
The breakdown includes 111 members from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), 70 from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), 22 from the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), five from the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), and smaller contributions from other allied parties such as the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), Pakistan Muslim League-Zia, and the National Party.
In light of the ruling coalition’s numbers, political experts suggest that the recent Supreme Court decision on Article 63-A, which allows the votes of dissident members, could play a pivotal role in achieving the required majority.
The government may attempt to sway members aligned with PTI to secure their votes for the amendment.
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) leader, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, has emerged as a key figure in this political equation. His party’s support could prove critical in ensuring the bill’s passage.
Yesterday, Maulana Fazlur Rehman stated that consensus had been reached on the draft of the constitutional amendment. Today, he is expected to meet PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and will meet PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif tomorrow to further consolidate his party's stance.
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