The contours of this amendment reveal the government’s intent to reshape several foundational articles of the Constitution, signaling a significant shift in the balance of powers between the federation, the provinces, and the judiciary.
According to sources, the federal government intends to amend five major articles of the Constitution — Articles 160 (Clause 3A), 213, 243, 191A, and related provisions.
Under the proposed amendment to Article 160, Clause 3A, the constitutional guarantee of the provinces’ fixed share in federal revenues would be withdrawn — a move likely to reignite debate over provincial autonomy and fiscal control.
The draft also introduces sweeping judicial reforms through changes to Article 191A and the inclusion of a new constitutional article, proposing the establishment of a Constitutional Court or Supreme Constitutional Court. This court would serve as the ultimate authority on constitutional interpretation, redefining the jurisdictional boundaries of Pakistan’s superior judiciary.
In addition, amendments to Article 200 are proposed, relating to the transfer of High Court judges, while another significant clause aims to restore education and population planning to the federal domain — sectors that were previously devolved to the provinces under the 18th Amendment.
The proposed amendment to Article 243 reinforces the federal government’s complete command over the Armed Forces, reaffirming civilian supremacy at the center. Similarly, under Article 213, changes are suggested in the appointment process of the Chief Election Commissioner, which could potentially alter the dynamics of electoral oversight.
The federal government, by presenting this draft to the PPP, has sought its political partnership and parliamentary backing to ensure the smooth passage of the amendment — a move that could open a new chapter in Pakistan’s constitutional and political discourse.
