Amnesty International South Asia warns that Pakistan’s 27th Constitutional Amendment seriously undermines judicial independence and weakens the rule of law. In a statement shared on January 5, the human rights organization says the amendment restructures the judicial system in a way that concentrates power within an executive-influenced framework.
The organization states that the amendment establishes a Federal Constitutional Court that effectively supersedes the Supreme Court. Amnesty International says this shift threatens fair trial rights and erodes constitutional safeguards designed to protect judicial autonomy.
Executive Control Raises Serious Judicial Concerns
Amnesty International says the amendment increases executive control over judicial appointments by allowing the president and prime minister to appoint key judges. The group notes that this process bypasses the Judicial Commission, enabling political interference in the judiciary.
The statement adds that lawmakers rushed the amendment through parliament without meaningful consultation. Amnesty International says this process triggered resignations of senior judges and sparked resistance from the judiciary and legal community, reflecting deep institutional concern.
The organization also warns that the amendment builds on earlier measures that politicize judicial appointments, expand grounds for removing judges, and allow punitive transfers. According to Amnesty, intimidation and surveillance further create a climate of fear within judicial institutions.
Background: Rule of Law and Democratic Legitimacy at Risk
The amendment granted lifetime immunity to the president and senior military officials, which Amnesty International said violated the principle of equality before the law and breached international human rights obligations.
The amendment passed through parliament after authorities disqualified opposition leaders, raising questions about democratic legitimacy. Amnesty International described the development as a deliberate attack on the rule of law and judicial independence.
The organization urged an urgent review of the amendment and called on Pakistan to align its constitutional framework with international human rights standards.
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