President Zardari Signs 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill into Law

In a significant development, President Asif Ali Zardari has signed the 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill into law, following Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s advice. This move comes after the bill’s passage by both houses of parliament with a two-thirds majority.

Key Provisions of the Amendment

The 26th Constitutional Amendment introduces significant reforms:

• Fixed Tenure for Chief Justice: The Chief Justice of Pakistan’s term is now set at three years.
• Parliamentary Committee: A 12-member committee will nominate the new Chief Justice from a panel of the three most senior judges.
• Judicial Commission of Pakistan: Responsible for appointing Supreme Court judges, comprising the Chief Justice, senior judges, National Assembly and Senate members, the Federal Minister for Law and Justice, the Attorney General, and a Pakistan Bar Council nominee.

Selection Process for Chief Justice

The parliamentary committee, consisting of eight National Assembly and four Senate members, will propose the new Chief Justice’s name to the Prime Minister, who will then forward it to the President for final approval.

Implications of the Amendment

This development marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s constitutional history. The gazette notification of the constitutional amendment has been issued, making the 26th amendment part of the 1973 Constitution.

With the President’s signature, the amendment has become law, paving the way for its implementation. Stay updated for further insights into the implications of this constitutional reform.

Also Read: PM Shehbaz Sharif Hails Passage of 26th Constitutional Amendment