The federal government’s proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment outlines a sweeping set of changes aimed at redefining the balance of power between the federation, provinces, judiciary, and key state institutions. Sources indicate that the amendment targets five major articles of the Constitution, introducing new provisions that could reshape Pakistan’s political and administrative structure.
The draft includes revisions to Articles 160(3A), 191A, 213, 243, and the addition of a new article related to judicial restructuring. Collectively, these proposed reforms focus on fiscal authority, judicial powers, military command, and the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC).
Revenue Sharing and Provincial Autonomy
One of the most significant changes concerns Article 160(3A), which currently guarantees the provinces’ constitutional share in the National Finance Commission (NFC) award. The proposed amendment suggests removing this constitutional guarantee, potentially granting the federal government greater discretion in allocating financial resources.
If approved, this revision could mark a substantial shift in fiscal federalism, altering the balance of financial authority that was reinforced after the 18th Amendment. The move is expected to spark debate over provincial autonomy and equitable resource distribution.
Judicial Restructuring and the Creation of a Constitutional Court
The draft also includes a proposal to amend Article 191A and introduce a new article to establish a “Constitutional Court” or “Supreme Constitutional Court.” This new body would have the final authority in constitutional interpretation, effectively redefining the current role of the Supreme Court in such matters.
The court would serve as the ultimate arbiter of constitutional disputes, providing a specialized framework for handling sensitive issues related to governance, federalism, and legislative authority.
Additionally, the proposal includes amendments to Article 200 to change the process of transferring High Court judges. The new provisions aim to make the transfer mechanism more structured and potentially subject to oversight, ensuring greater consistency in judicial administration.
Education, Population Planning, and Federal Oversight
The proposed amendment also revisits the scope of the 18th Amendment, suggesting that certain devolved subjects, particularly education and population planning, should return to federal jurisdiction. This reversal would centralize policy-making authority in these sectors, which the government argues is necessary to ensure uniform standards and national coordination.
Armed Forces Command and Chief Election Commissioner Appointment
Revisions to Article 243 would reaffirm that the command and control of the armed forces rests solely with the federal government, clarifying ambiguities regarding the chain of authority.
Meanwhile, the proposed change to Article 213 seeks to modify the appointment process of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC). The new procedure aims to enhance transparency and balance in the selection mechanism, ensuring broader political consensus and improved institutional independence.
Political Consultations and Legislative Path Forward
According to sources, the federal government has already shared the draft amendment with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), seeking its cooperation for smooth passage through parliament. The National Assembly currently holds the numbers needed for a two-thirds majority; however, support from coalition partners and the Senate remains essential for final approval.
The proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment has already triggered intense political discussions, with analysts calling it one of the most consequential constitutional proposals since the 18th Amendment.
If enacted, it would significantly alter Pakistan’s governance framework—impacting provincial powers, judicial independence, and institutional command structures in ways that could shape the country’s political landscape for years to come.
