Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has voiced strong opposition to recent proposed constitutional amendments, claiming they aim to subordinate the judiciary to the executive. Speaking to a private TV channel, he expressed doubt that the current Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has even seen the draft of these amendments, emphasizing that the government is not engaging the public in this critical process. Abbasi criticized the timing of the amendments, suggesting that proposing changes "in the dark of night" likens it to banditry. He lamented the lack of transparency, stating, "You think that the people of the country are stupid; they have no right to express their opinion?" He called for the draft to be made public for an extended debate of three to four months before being presented to Parliament. He further argued that the amendments are intended to diminish judicial independence and prevent certain individuals from political participation.

Although Abbasi noted the judiciary's past mistakes, he stressed that these issues should be addressed without undermining the entire system. He advocated for reform in the selection of the Chief Justice and the judiciary's current operational structure. Abbasi also urged the government to accept the Supreme Court's recent ruling on reserved seats, recalling that both Yusuf Raza Gilani and Nawaz Sharif faced consequences for ignoring judicial decisions. He reflected on historical attempts to amend the constitution in the late 90s and noted that opposition from his party ultimately led to those efforts being abandoned. In conclusion, Abbasi's remarks highlight a broader concern over judicial independence and the need for transparent governance, as he called for a more democratic approach to constitutional reform.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan