The proposed 26th Constitution Amendment Bill seeks to strip the apex court of its judicial power to interpret the Constitution and transfer it to a new constitutional court under government control. This move has raised concerns about the future of judicial independence and constitutional balance in Pakistan.
The bill not only undermines the authority of the Supreme Court but also sets up a system where judges are appointed and controlled by the executive branch, compromising the separation of powers. The potential consequences of such a drastic overhaul of the judicial system could have far-reaching implications for the rule of law and democratic governance in the country.
Despite the government’s claims of depoliticizing the courts and reducing backlog, the proposed amendments seem designed to consolidate power and limit judicial oversight. The bill also includes provisions that restrict the judiciary’s ability to challenge constitutional amendments, further eroding checks and balances.
As citizens and parliamentarians grapple with the implications of this bill, it is crucial to protect the integrity of the judiciary and uphold the principles of democracy and justice. The future of Pakistan’s constitutional framework hangs in the balance, and it is up to its leaders to ensure that the rule of law prevails. Let us hope that wisdom and courage prevail in the face of this national crisis.
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