ISLAMABAD – Pakistan – Former Senate chairman and veteran politician Raza Rabbani has warned that recent proposals to amend the Constitution could effectively undo the 18th Amendment, which had significantly strengthened provincial autonomy in Pakistan.
Rabbani’s statement followed reports that the ruling coalition had approached the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) for support on a potential 27th Amendment. The proposal has drawn criticism from lawyers and politicians, who argue that it risks undermining the federal structure by rolling back powers previously devolved to the provinces.
Provincial Powers Under Threat
Enacted in 2010, the 18th Amendment devolved several key ministries and departments—including education and population control—from the federal government to the provinces. Rabbani cautioned that revisiting these devolutions would impose a heavy financial and administrative burden on the federal government and compromise participatory federalism.
He urged that if the federal government cannot manage these responsibilities, provinces should be allowed to collect taxes and oversee federal expenditures through the Council of Common Interests, ensuring balance and accountability in governance.
Political Repercussions
The PPP, which has consistently opposed any rollback of the 18th Amendment, confirmed it had been approached regarding the proposed changes. Government officials acknowledged that discussions were ongoing, but no formal draft amendment has been presented in parliament.
Rabbani warned that attempting such reforms amid Pakistan’s fragile political climate could strain relations between the federal government and the provinces and fuel extra-constitutional political activities, threatening national cohesion.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.