The National Assembly approved the 27th Constitutional Amendment on Wednesday, with 234 members voting in favour. The opposition boycotted the process, while four JUI-F members voted against the amendment. The approval strengthens parliamentary democracy and safeguards the institutional structure, including the Chief Justice’s position, as clarified by Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, addressing the Assembly after the vote, thanked members for their support and described the amendment as a crucial step in stabilising Pakistan’s democratic framework. However, the Prime Minister also used the occasion to address the serious security challenges facing the country.
He highlighted the recent attempts by terrorists to target Wana and Islamabad, underlining that Pakistan’s security forces responded decisively. In Wana, terrorists; including individuals from Afghanistan, tried to escalate violence, but the Pakistan Army’s timely operation neutralised all threats. The Prime Minister praised the bravery of security forces for rescuing all cadets safely and paying tribute to their sacrifices, urging the nation to maintain unity and vigilance.
The Islamabad Judicial Complex attack, which claimed the lives of twelve people, including lawyers, was also condemned by the Prime Minister. He said Pakistan has consistently delivered strong responses to terrorism and would continue to do so. Emphasising Pakistan’s decades-long efforts to support peace in Afghanistan, he warned that it is unacceptable for Afghanistan to harbour terrorists while making empty promises of cooperation.
Political Unity amid Security Threats
The 27th Amendment, presented by Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar, ensures that the Chief Justice of Pakistan’s office remains secure, with the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court and Constitutional Court assuming the position after Justice Yahya Afridi. Opposition members protested and walked out during the motion, but the amendment passed with overwhelming support.
Former Prime Minister and PML-N President Nawaz Sharif attended the session, receiving a warm welcome from party members and exchanging greetings with lawmakers, including PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. Bilawal, in his remarks, highlighted that legislative strength lies in consensus rather than majority, stressing the need for unity against terrorism.
“The terrorists are attempting to raise their heads again, but the Pakistani nation has defeated them before and will do so again,” Bilawal said, calling for national cohesion against anti-Pakistan elements. He further noted that the PPP’s central executive committee decided to support the 27th Amendment to ensure the establishment of a strong constitutional court.
Pakistan’s Fight against Terror Continues
Prime Minister Sharif reiterated that the government and security forces have repeatedly responded effectively to terrorist threats, including the Islamabad attack and the ongoing insurgency in southern districts like Bannu and Wana. He underlined that terrorism is not a domestic political issue but a national challenge, and Pakistan’s commitment to peace and stability remains unwavering.
Security analysts note that these attacks, often perpetrated by Afghan-based militants, highlight the ongoing risk posed by cross-border terrorism. Islamabad’s insistence on Afghanistan controlling militant groups, including the TTP, remains a central demand in the regional peace process.
The Prime Minister emphasised that Pakistan has long advocated for peace in Afghanistan without expecting material gains, and its role as a frontline state against terrorism is recognised globally. Yet the persistent support or tolerance of terrorist groups by elements across the border exacerbates the threat to Pakistani citizens, particularly in KP’s southern districts.
Unity and Resilience
Both Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari highlighted the need for political unity in the face of terror. They acknowledged the bravery and sacrifices of Pakistan’s security forces, who continue to confront terrorists to protect civilians, while the nation’s institutions strengthen the framework for democratic stability through constitutional reforms.
The approval of the 27th Amendment not only marks a milestone in parliamentary democracy but also underscores Pakistan’s determination to fight terror while remaining united politically and socially. With terrorist attempts ongoing in southern KP, including Bannu, and high-profile attacks in Islamabad, the message from Pakistan’s leadership is clear: terrorism will be confronted decisively, and the nation stands united in the face of adversity.
