ISLAMABAD – The Pakistani government is not making changes to the political framework, judiciary and armed forces, but these tweaks also propose ban on dual-national government employees.
As per available information, the federal government has started work on adding a new clause to the Constitution through the 27th Constitutional Amendment, sparking intense debate across political circles and bureaucracy alike.
The proposed amendment will make it mandatory for government employees to choose, either their government job or foreign citizenship. The move aims to bring civil servants under the same rules that already apply to public office holders and members of Parliament.
Government officials argue, “If a public representative cannot hold dual citizenship, then why should a civil servant be allowed to?”
The proposal takes direct reference from Article 63(1)(c) of the Constitution, which clearly states that a dual national cannot be a member of Parliament. Now, the government is reportedly considering adding a new sub-clause to extend this restriction to the country’s bureaucrats as well.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) entered the fray, with its Central Executive Committee (CEC) currently holding heated discussions on the proposal. Sources close to the meeting reveal that most members of the PPP’s CEC have supported the amendment, while some have raised serious concerns over the proposed clause.
If passed, the 27th Constitutional Amendment could bring a massive shake-up in the civil bureaucracy, potentially forcing thousands of dual-national officers to make a life-changing decision, serve Pakistan or keep foreign citizenship.
Several countries restrict dual citizenship for government employees and politicians, primarily to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure loyalty. India, China, Singapore, and Indonesia do not allow dual nationals to hold public office.
In Middle East, nations such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar also require government officials to hold only national citizenship. In Europe, some countries like Germany and Austria restrict dual citizenship for high-level officials, while Norway and Sweden allow it for most public roles but may require sole citizenship for sensitive positions.
On other hand, America UK, and Canada allow dual citizens to work in government.
