ISLAMABAD(The COW News Digital) Chief Justice of Pakistan, Justice Yahya Afridi, has convened a full court meeting today to discuss the implications of the 27th constitutional amendment on the judiciary. Sources indicate that the meeting will focus on assessing the amendment’s impact on judicial independence and the balance of powers within the state. The full court session is scheduled for 2:00 PM, following Friday prayers.
The call for a full court meeting follows letters submitted to the Chief Justice by three Supreme Court judges—Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Athar Minallah, and Justice Salahuddin Panhwar—expressing concerns regarding the amendment. In his letter, Justice Salahuddin Panhwar suggested that the full court should conduct a clause-by-clause review of the 27th amendment, emphasizing the inclusion of the Law and Justice Commission and the Judicial Policy-Making Committee in consultations. He warned that the amendment could disrupt the balance of powers and affect the autonomy of the judiciary.
Legal experts note that the 27th amendment has been a subject of intense debate, with critics arguing that it may shift the equilibrium between the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. The Supreme Court’s decision to engage the full bench reflects the institution’s commitment to safeguarding constitutional principles and ensuring that any alteration in law is scrutinized for its long-term effects on governance and judicial independence.
In addition to the full court meeting, Chief Justice Afridi will host a dinner in honor of Justice Aminuddin Khan, who is set to retire from his position on November 20. The gathering will provide an opportunity for colleagues to pay tribute to Justice Khan’s service and contributions to the judiciary.
Observers say that the timing of the full court meeting signals the Supreme Court’s proactive stance in reviewing recent constitutional changes and addressing concerns raised by senior judges. The judiciary’s careful examination of the amendment is expected to influence public confidence and political discourse surrounding legislative reforms.
As the full court convenes, attention will remain on how Pakistan’s top judiciary evaluates the amendment and balances the roles of various state institutions. Legal analysts predict that the outcome of the session could have significant ramifications for legislative authority, judicial autonomy, and the broader governance framework in the country.
