The last hurrah

As political tempers rise over the proposed 27th Amendment, fears are growing that Pakistan’s fragile democratic consensus could once again be undermined by expedient politics. Former Senate chairman Raza Rabbani has sounded perhaps the most urgent warning, cautioning that the amendment would effectively roll back the provincial autonomy secured under the landmark 18th Amendment. According to him, any attempt to undo this consensus would “cast deep shadows over the federation”, noting that the 18th Amendment had defused extremist nationalist rhetoric by giving provinces a genuine stake in the federation. These apprehensions are echoed by several parties and civil society groups. The PTI has declared its outright opposition, alleging that the proposed changes aim to erode judicial independence while the newly formed Tehreek Tahafuz-e-Aeen-e-Pakistan (TTAP) has warned that the proposed amendment could “bury democracy”.

On the government’s side, PML-N leaders have attempted to downplay the controversy. Rana Sanaullah insists that critics are blowing the issue out of proportion, portraying minor constitutional tweaks as a political “storm”. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, too, has assured that the 27th Amendment will be presented “in accordance with the constitution” and only after consultation with coalition partners. Yet, these assurances have failed to convince many. Political observers point to the manner in which the 26th Amendment was hurriedly passed as the reason for the deep distrust now surrounding the government’s intentions. There are also growing concerns about the opacity of the amendment process, with fears that the public and even legislators may not know the full contents of the proposed changes until the day they are tabled in parliament. By then, it would be too late for meaningful input, since the bill would only be moved once the government is sure it has the numbers to push it through both houses.

Attention now turns to the PPP’s Central Executive Committee meeting. Many believe the party could strike a ‘give and take’ deal that allows it to claim victory for protecting the 18th Amendment, while conceding ground elsewhere. The PPP has long advocated for the creation of constitutional courts and harbours deep mistrust of the judiciary due to its own fraught history of persecution. However, it may resist any move to claw back subjects like education and population planning from the provinces – a reversal of gains the party proudly authored under the 18th Amendment. Reports suggest that the government’s real focus lies in amending one particular constitutional article. If so, there could be room for political bargaining: the PPP’s support in exchange for preserving key aspects of provincial autonomy. On issues related to the Election Commission of Pakistan, both major coalition partners appear to be aligned. Ultimately, what should be a transparent constitutional process has turned into yet another opaque exercise. For those who still believe in the spirit of democracy, this may indeed be the last hurrah.