Senate Passes 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill, Paving Way for Judicial Reforms

The Senate has passed the 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill 2024, a significant step towards judicial reforms in Pakistan, with a two-thirds majority vote. The bill, which proposes changes to the constitution, including fixing the term of the Chief Justice of Pakistan and introducing reforms in the appointment process, is expected to be passed by the National Assembly, making it a law. This development comes amid criticism from the PTI, which has decided not to vote on the bill, citing reasons including lack of time for further consultations and its leader Imran Khan's disinterest in the extension of his tenure.

The ANP chief, Aimal Wali Khan, has expressed his support for the 26th Constitutional Amendment, citing its potential to block future judicial appointments like those of former Chief Justices Saqib Nisar and Gulzar Ahmed. He emphasized the need for judicial reforms to ensure parliamentary supremacy and prevent external interference in court appointments. In contrast, the PTI has opposed the amendment, with Senator Ali Zafar playing a role in winding down the reforms. The opposition has been dismissed by the ruling party, which sees the proposed reforms as crucial for the strengthening of democracy and the judicial system in the country.

Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar has announced that the government will review the seniority principle in the Supreme Court under the 26th Constitutional Amendment. The principle dictates that the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) is chosen from the senior-most judge. The proposed reform aims to introduce transparency in the appointment process, fix a CJP's tenure at three years, and appoint the CJP from three senior-most judges. A 12-member committee, comprising eight MNAs and four senators, will be formed to suggest names for the CJP position, with representation from the government and opposition.

The bill has been welcomed by the PPP leader Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, who hopes that the bill will be passed, whether the PTI votes in favour of it or not. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed his delight at the country achieving a significant milestone for constitutional stability and the rule of law after stabilizing the national economy. Despite the opposition from the PTI, the Senate approval of the 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill 2024 is seen as a significant step towards strengthening the democracy of the country.

The next step in the process is the passage of the bill by the National Assembly, which is expected to be smooth sailing given the two-thirds majority in favor. Once passed, the 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill 2024 will pave the way for a more transparent and accountable judicial system in Pakistan, a move that has been welcomed by most of the opposition parties. The move by the government and opposition parties shows a newfound commitment to strengthening the democratic process in Pakistan.