Controversial 26th Amendment by Shehbaz Sharif Challenged in Pakistan’s Supreme Court
In Islamabad, Pakistan, a citizen has challenged the controversial 26th constitutional amendment introduced by the Shehbaz Sharif government in the Supreme Court. The petitioner argues that the amendment violates the constitution’s basic framework and the division of powers among state institutions. The amendment allegedly allows the government to appoint the Chief Justice and alters the Judicial Commission’s formation. The petitioner seeks to have the amendment declared void, citing it as a violation of fundamental rights and judicial independence.
Additionally, the amendment has been contested in the Sindh High Court by advocate Illahi Bux, who requests sections 8, 11, and 14 be nullified. Respondents in the plea include secretaries from the cabinet division, law, and justice. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is seeking support from political figures like Fazlur Rehman and Bilawal Bhutto for the amendment, which faces protests for allegedly undermining judicial power.
Doubts Revealed
26th Amendment -: In Pakistan, the 26th Amendment refers to a change in the country’s constitution. It is a set of rules that the government wants to add or modify, which in this case affects how judges are appointed.
Shehbaz Sharif -: Shehbaz Sharif is a politician in Pakistan. He is the Prime Minister of Pakistan and is responsible for leading the government and making important decisions.
Supreme Court -: The Supreme Court is the highest court in a country. In Pakistan, it is where important legal cases are decided, and it has the power to review laws and amendments to ensure they follow the constitution.
Judicial independence -: Judicial independence means that judges and courts should be free from outside influence, especially from the government. This ensures that they can make fair and unbiased decisions based on the law.
Judicial Commission -: The Judicial Commission is a group responsible for selecting and appointing judges in Pakistan. Changes to how this commission works can affect who becomes a judge and how the judiciary functions.
Sindh High Court -: The Sindh High Court is a major court in the Sindh province of Pakistan. It handles important legal cases and can also review laws and amendments like the Supreme Court.
Protests -: Protests are when people gather to show their disagreement or unhappiness with something, like a government decision. In this case, people are protesting against the 26th Amendment because they believe it affects the power of the judiciary.