Islamabad: The 27th Constitutional Amendment was introduced in the Senate by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, marking a significant legislative development aimed at establishing a federal constitutional court in Pakistan.

The proposed amendment, comprising forty-nine clauses across five subject areas, seeks to address constitutional matters and interpretation, with the court’s permanent seat designated for Islamabad. The initiative aligns with a previous agreement among political parties as part of the Charter of Democracy, aiming to bolster democratic principles and uphold constitutional supremacy.

Key provisions of the amendment involve the President’s authority to transfer judges between high courts upon the Judicial Commission of Pakistan’s recommendation. Additionally, the amendment outlines changes to Article 243, mandating the President to appoint military chiefs on the Prime Minister’s advice, while abolishing the office of the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee by November 2025.

The Prime Minister will also have the authority to appoint the Commander of the National Strategic Command, with specific roles and privileges for top military ranks being defined by the Federal Government.

Law Minister Tarar urged opposition parties to engage in discussions on the amendment, emphasizing the importance of considering the nation’s dignity and sovereignty. The amendment has been referred to the Senate’s standing committee on law and justice for further review, inviting collaboration with the National Assembly’s counterpart committee.

The Senate session was adjourned, with proceedings set to resume on Sunday at 3 p.m.