ISLAMABAD: The proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment has stirred a nationwide debate, with critics warning that it could roll back the hard-won gains of the 18th Amendment, a milestone that ensured greater provincial autonomy and decentralisation of power.
According to political insiders, the new amendment aims to recentralise key administrative and financial powers under the federal government — a move that has alarmed constitutional experts and provincial leaders alike. Sources suggest that subjects such as education and population planning, which were devolved to provinces in 2010, may once again come under federal control.
The proposed changes also include a review of the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, potentially revisiting the formula that governs the distribution of financial resources among the provinces. Furthermore, reports indicate plans to reintroduce executive magistrates and possibly establish new constitutional courts — both steps viewed as mechanisms to restore federal oversight in areas once reserved for provincial governments.
What has raised eyebrows across the political spectrum is the apparent involvement of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) — the very architect of the 18th Amendment. Observers note that the PPP’s cooperation with the federal government on this initiative could mark a turning point in its long-standing stance on provincial empowerment.
Analysts warn that such constitutional tinkering, without broad political consensus, could deepen divisions and fuel mistrust among the federating units. “The Constitution declares that sovereignty belongs to the people — not institutions or individuals,” remarked one legal expert, questioning whether the country is prepared for another constitutional overhaul at a time of political uncertainty.
As discussions around the amendment intensify, lawmakers and the public await clarity on whether this will be a progressive reform or a regressive power shift — one that could reshape the very balance of Pakistan’s democratic structure.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.