The Senate of Pakistan resumed debate on “The Constitution (Twenty-Seventh Amendment) Bill, 2025” on Monday, focusing on key reforms designed to redefine the country’s judicial and constitutional framework.
Senators from the treasury benches voiced strong support for the amendment, emphasizing that the creation of a Federal Constitutional Court would help reduce the backlog of cases in the Supreme Court. They hailed the proposed changes as a milestone in reinforcing the supremacy of the Constitution and bolstering democracy.
Meanwhile, the National Assembly is also scheduled to convene later today at 4:30 pm, according to Radio Pakistan.
Last week, the government formally moved the proposed 27th Amendment Bill in the Senate, which aims to provide constitutional protection to top positions in the armed forces, establish a Federal Constitutional Court, allow the transfer of high court judges, and amend several crucial constitutional provisions.
However, the opposition rejected the draft outright shortly after its introduction. The bill, presented by Law Minister Azam Tarar, was debated in a session chaired by Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani.
Tarar explained that the amendment bill consists of 49 clauses covering five major areas, including three main constitutional domains and two ancillary ones.
Government’s Position
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar clarified that there was “no deadlock” over the amendment, calling the Constitution a “living document” that continues to evolve.
He stated that Parliament was holding “hectic debate” to ensure the 27th Amendment strengthens governance, federal unity, and national defence. He noted that the proposed changes were based on “international best practices.”
Tarar highlighted that the Prime Minister’s decision to withdraw immunity from the proposed amendment reflected the government’s commitment to accountability. However, he defended retaining presidential immunity, calling it a global norm for heads of state.
He added that the concept of Constitutional Courts has been under discussion since the Charter of Democracy (2006), jointly signed by PML-N, PPP, and ANP, and that this amendment finally brings that long-standing idea to fruition.
Parliamentary Debate
Senator Talha Mehmood described the amendment as essential for reforming Pakistan’s judicial system and fortifying national defence. He said the proposed Federal Constitutional Court would play a key role in resolving disputes between the federation and provinces.
Senator Syed Masroor Ahsan urged constructive dialogue for the sake of democracy and the Constitution, while Dr Afnan Ullah Khan criticized the opposition for promoting divisive politics.
On the other hand, Senators Azam Swati and Mohsin Aziz advised caution, urging that no haste be shown in passing the bill. Senators Ali Zafar and Hamid Khan outright opposed the proposed constitutional amendment, citing concerns over its long-term implications.
The debate is expected to continue as lawmakers deliberate on the bill’s potential impact on judicial independence, civil-military relations, and constitutional balance.
