HYDERABAD; Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Tuesday dismissed speculation about a possible 27th Constitutional Amendment, calling it “baseless rumours” with no approach made to him by any federal minister, prime minister, or party member.
The political corridors in Islamabad have been abuzz with talk that the proposed amendment might further refine the structure and functioning of the superior judiciary, addressing issues left unresolved in the controversial 26th Amendment — including the creation of a separate constitutional court.
Speaking to reporters, Bilawal recalled that the 26th Amendment was passed through consensus after political compromise. “PPP wanted constitutional courts, but we compromised,” he said. In a post on X, the PPP quoted him as calling the 26th Amendment “an eternal success,” noting that judicial reforms and constitutional courts were part of the Charter of Democracy, but consensus required prioritising a constitutional bench instead.
While speculation continues, no official draft for the 27th Amendment has been tabled, and the proposal remains at an early stage, with reported consultations underway within the ruling PML-N and some legal circles.
On Sunday, PTI leader Asad Qaiser announced plans to engage the legal community over the “new drama” surrounding the legislation, starting with a meeting at the Islamabad Bar this month. In June, the Islamabad High Court Bar Association had endorsed the idea of a 27th Amendment while urging broader judicial reforms, including the nationwide rotation of judges.
Responding to a separate question about changes to the National Finance Commission (NFC) award, Bilawal said revisions were necessary. He pointed out that the current NFC award predates the 18th Amendment of 2010, which devolved significant federal responsibilities to the provinces.
“The Constitution requires that the NFC award be announced every five years, and provincial shares cannot be reduced,” Bilawal stressed. “All provinces must receive greater resources in line with their increased responsibilities after the 18th Amendment, and a new NFC award must be issued without delay.”
