Balochistan Lawyers Oppose 26th Constitutional Amendment
In Quetta, Pakistan, senior lawyers from Balochistan have voiced their opposition to the proposed 26th constitutional amendment. They have warned of nationwide protests if the government, led by Shehbaz Sharif, does not retract its decision to present the legislation in parliament.
Lawyers Demand Public Involvement
During a joint press conference, leaders from the Lawyers’ Joint Action Committee emphasized that the Constitution is a social contract, and the public should have a say in any changes. Notable speakers included Ali Ahmed Kurd, former president of the Supreme Court Bar Association, Rahib Ahmed Buledi from the Pakistan Bar Council, and Muhammad Afzal Harifal, president of the Balochistan Bar Association.
Concerns Over Judicial Independence
The lawyers highlighted that many clauses in the amendment pertain to the judiciary, and bar associations should be consulted. Kurd criticized the government’s legitimacy to amend the Constitution, stating that the most influential pressure group in Pakistan comprises lawyers, supported by civil society and students.
Kurd also pointed out that the current Constitution has failed to ensure basic rights, with many people missing in regions like Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He warned that if major political parties support these amendments, their democratic credibility would be compromised.
Nationwide Protests Planned
The Karachi Lawyers’ Action Committee has announced a nationwide protest movement, emphasizing that any constitutional amendments affecting the judiciary should involve consultations with bar associations. The proposed amendments have sparked concerns about undermining judicial powers.
Doubts Revealed
Balochistan -: Balochistan is a province in Pakistan. It is known for its unique culture and history, and it is the largest province by area in Pakistan.
26th Constitutional Amendment -: A constitutional amendment is a change or addition to a country’s constitution. The 26th amendment in Pakistan is a proposed change that some people believe could affect the judiciary.
Shehbaz Sharif -: Shehbaz Sharif is a Pakistani politician. He has served in various important roles, including as the Chief Minister of Punjab, and is a member of a prominent political family in Pakistan.
Constitution -: A constitution is a set of rules that guides how a country, state, or other political organization works. It explains the rights of the people and the powers of the government.
Social contract -: A social contract is an agreement among people in a society to cooperate for social benefits. It means that people agree to follow certain rules and accept duties to ensure everyone’s well-being.
Judiciary -: The judiciary is the system of courts that interprets and applies the law in a country. It is an important part of the government that ensures justice is served.
Bar associations -: Bar associations are organizations of lawyers. They help regulate the legal profession and ensure that lawyers follow ethical standards.
Karachi Lawyers’ Action Committee -: This is a group of lawyers in Karachi, a major city in Pakistan. They organize actions like protests to express their views on legal and political issues.
