ISLAMABAD – Pakistan recently approved 27th Constitutional Amendment with parliamentary majority, sparking debate across political and judicial circles. Now, the government is gearing up for the 28th Amendment, with officials confirming that it is in the works and hinting that it could be presented before the upcoming budget.
Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik revealed that the 28th Constitutional Amendment is set to be finalized before the upcoming national budget. The amendment, he said, is crucial for reshaping Pakistan’s governance and financial planning.
Malik stressed that it will be presented in parliament once a broad consensus is reached among political stakeholders. Key issues, including the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award and Article 140A, are already under discussion, with the amendment expected to be ready within two to three months.
Local government reforms are also at the forefront. Malik said strengthening local institutions is important as he hinted that local government elections should be party-based, breaking with the tradition of non-party polls.
Crucial agreements with MQM are reportedly on the verge of being finalized before the budget session, raising the stakes for political maneuvering.
The announcement comes in the wake of high-profile judicial resignations. Malik defended the judges’ right to step down but warned against politicizing the judiciary, asserting that no political unrest is expected. The newly formed Federal Constitutional Court has already made waves, delivering three rulings and beginning to tackle the nation’s backlog of cases—a move that could significantly reshape judicial authority.
Malik also addressed the contentious issue of dual nationality, proposing that if politicians are barred from holding multiple citizenships, bureaucrats should face the same restrictions. However, the proposal reportedly faced resistance from a key allied party, highlighting potential political friction ahead.
With the government determined to push through key constitutional and legislative reforms ahead of the budget, Pakistan stands on the brink of a transformative political and financial reshaping—changes that could leave a lasting mark on governance, judiciary, and local politics.
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