The Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) has made public its draft for the 26th constitutional amendment, which proposes significant reforms to the process of appointing the Chief Justice of Pakistan. The draft stipulates that the most senior judge of the Supreme Court will automatically assume the position of Chief Justice, eliminating the need for a panel of judges.
The 27-point draft does not include the formation of a 12-member parliamentary committee for judicial appointments. Additionally, it removes the previous provision that required a panel of three judges, opting instead for the automatic elevation of the senior-most judge to the role of Chief Justice.
Under the proposed changes to Article 175A, the Chief Justice will chair the Judicial Council, which will consist of three senior Supreme Court judges, the Law Minister, and the Attorney General. The Supreme Judicial Council will also include four members of parliament, along with one female or non-Muslim representative.
During a press conference, JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman explained that opposition parties, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have requested additional time until tomorrow to provide their feedback on the proposal. Following their response, the amendment will be brought before parliament for approval.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman further mentioned that the government has addressed and excluded all concerns raised by the opposition regarding the draft. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also remarked that the opposition is eager for the JUI-F to present the amendment in parliament for further deliberation and potential passage.
