ISLAMABAD: Concerns over a possible 28th Constitutional Amendment intensified after State Minister for Law Barrister Aqeel Malik rejected claims that the government planned to reverse the 18th Amendment. Speaking during Geo News programme “Capital Talk,” Malik described such assumptions as “extremely false” and urged political circles to avoid spreading misleading impressions.
The debate emerged ahead of Eid al-Adha, expected on May 27, as reports circulated regarding discussions on constitutional reforms. However, Malik clarified that authorities had not initiated any official process related to a new constitutional amendment. He explained that leaders only discussed broader national matters, including education, health, and financial arrangements between the federation and provinces.
Debate Over Provincial Powers
The 18th Amendment, introduced during the Pakistan Peoples Party-led government in 2010, transferred several powers from the federal government to provinces. The amendment granted provinces greater authority over health, women’s development, social welfare, and local government affairs. Consequently, political parties continue to debate whether further reforms could affect provincial autonomy.
Malik also confirmed that policymakers discussed the National Finance Commission Award and Article 140A, which relates to local governments, during earlier constitutional deliberations. He maintained that any amendment focusing on national or public interest would positively serve the country.
PPP Warns Against Constitutional Changes
Meanwhile, PPP leader Agha Rafiullah strongly opposed any attempt to alter the 18th Amendment. He warned that reversing its provisions could create political unrest and instability across Pakistan. Furthermore, he stressed that constitutional reforms should emerge through national consensus instead of political pressure.
PTI Senator Barrister Ali Zafar also commented on the issue, arguing that any reversal of the amendment could politically damage the PPP and complicate negotiations with the PML-N.
