What changes are proposed in PPP’s draft for 26th Constitutional Amendment?

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) shared draft for proposed 26th constitutional amendments, aimed at overhauling judicial framework.

Federal Constitutional Court

• PPP proposed the formation of a Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) with Chief Justice and judges from each province, rotating leadership every three years.
• The high-powered court will have its permanent seat in federal capital but can convene in provincial capitals.
• Original and advisory jurisdictions currently held by the Supreme Court will be transferred to the FCC, with its decisions deemed final.

Provincial Constitutional Courts

• Creation of four Provincial Constitutional Courts, one for each province, each with its own Chief Justice and judges.
• These courts will handle writ jurisdiction previously managed by High Courts, while appeals from lower courts will go to the High Courts.

Additional Articles

• Provisions affirming the finality of Supreme Court judgments and granting High Courts jurisdiction over appeals from lower courts.

The amendments represent a significant shift in Pakistan’s legal system, and the PPP is working to garner support for these reforms as discussions progress.

Detailed breakdown of proposed constitutional amendments: Over 20 clauses identified