PTI to Consult Lawyers on Rumored 27th Amendment Concerns

Download IPFS

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior leader and former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser announced plans to engage with the legal community regarding the rumored 27th Constitutional Amendment. The amendment, which has sparked debate across political circles, is yet to be formally introduced. Qaiser made these remarks at a press conference in Islamabad, held alongside Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-e-Pakistan (TTAP) head Mahmood Khan Achakzai and former Sindh Governor Muhammad Zubair Umar.

Qaiser criticized the current government’s approach to governance, describing the political system as “neither legal, constitutional, nor democratic.” He expressed concern over the amendment, which is speculated to involve issues related to provincial rights or judicial reforms. This follows the passage of the 26th Constitutional Amendment in October 2024, which PTI opposed and boycotted in parliament. Despite official denials from the federal government about plans for the 27th Amendment, rumors continue to circulate.

The PTI leader stated that the party intends to meet with the Islamabad High Court Bar Association (IHCBA) later in August to discuss the possible implications of the amendment. Additionally, PTI plans to hold a seminar involving broader consultations, including with foreign diplomats.

During the press conference, Qaiser also criticized the government’s handling of political affairs, highlighting issues faced by lawmakers. He pointed to the denial of access for parliamentarians to inspect conditions at Adiala Jail, questioning why such rights, common in other parliamentary systems, are restricted in Pakistan. He called for legal cases against PTI founder Imran Khan and other political detainees to be handled fairly, without administrative interference.

Mahmood Khan Achakzai warned that changes to the Constitution could undermine Pakistan’s stability, while Muhammad Zubair Umar dismissed assertions that Pakistan is facing an economic default. The opposition alliance TTAP committed to using parliamentary, judicial, and public platforms to address these concerns.

Asad Qaiser announced the formation of a lawyers’ movement aimed at addressing the potential constitutional changes. The planned consultations and actions reflect PTI’s focus on engaging legal experts and stakeholders regarding the amendment. The involvement of the legal community is expected to be a significant part of the ongoing discussions between political parties and other interested groups.