The federal government has finalised the initial draft of the 27th Constitutional Amendment. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has completed consultations with coalition partners ahead of the cabinet’s review. The bill will be presented in the Senate after approval in tomorrow’s federal cabinet meeting.
Nine-Member Constitutional Court Proposed
According to the draft, a nine-member constitutional court will replace the existing constitutional bench of the Supreme Court. The proposed amendment also seeks to increase the retirement age for judges of both the Supreme Court and Constitutional Court from 68 to 70 years.
Field Marshal Position to Gain Constitutional Protection
Sources revealed that an amendment to Article 243 will give constitutional protection to the position of field marshal. The title will carry lifetime status and constitutional powers under the proposed changes.
Federal Share in NFC Award to Rise
The draft also proposes a 10% increase in the federal share of the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award. It suggests transferring control of the education and health sectors to the federal government through mutual agreements.
Changes in Judicial and Election Appointments
If a deadlock occurs over the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner, the issue will move to the Supreme Judicial Commission. The roles of the president and prime minister in judicial appointments will be reduced, granting more authority to the Judicial Commission.
Cabinet Meeting Meets today
The Ministry of Law and Justice will present the bill in today’s cabinet meeting at Parliament House. Once approved, the amendment will proceed through the constitutional process outlined in Article 239 before final approval in Parliament.
