The 26th Constitutional Amendment became law today. President Asif Ali Zardari gave his assent. Earlier, both houses of Parliament approved the amendment. The ruling coalition worked hard over the weekend to secure a two-thirds majority. First, the Senate passed the amendment, followed by the National Assembly.
The amendment brings key changes to the judiciary. It removes the Supreme Court’s suo motu powers. Additionally, it limits the Chief Justice of Pakistan’s term to three years. Moreover, the Prime Minister now has the power to appoint the next Chief Justice from the top three senior judges of the Supreme Court.
On Sunday, the Senate passed the bill with a two-thirds majority. Then, during a late-night session, the National Assembly also approved it. This version had 27 clauses, reflecting Senate recommendations. Once passed, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif sent the bill to President Zardari for final approval. Consequently, the President gave his assent today.
PTI’s Response
However, the PTI condemned its lawmakers who supported the amendment. The party accused them of betraying their mandate. PTI referred to these members as “conscience sellers” in a post on X. They further labeled them as “seditious” and planned protests outside their homes.
Meanwhile, PTI MNA Zain Qureshi denied voting for the amendment. In a video, he clarified his stance. He stated that he stands firm with the party. He also assured his constituents of his loyalty.
Votes in Senate and NA
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar presented the bill. Subsequently, the Senate approved it with 65 votes. Support came from PPP, PML-N, JUI-F, and other coalition partners. Some senators even voted against party lines.
Likewise, the National Assembly passed the bill with 225 votes. This was just one more than required. Although PTI members walked out in protest, ruling coalition parties and independents supported the bill. Afterward, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the Parliament. He praised the passage as a “historical achievement.”
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