Law minister presents 26th Constitutional Amendment in Senate

Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar presented the 26th constitutional amendment bill in the Senate on Sunday, seeking to reform the process for judicial appointments.

During his address, he stated that a committee had been established at the Speaker's directive to thoroughly review the amendment. He urged the Senate to take up the bill, which has been included in the supplementary agenda.

The law minister highlighted that the procedures for appointing judges to the higher judiciary were introduced in the 18th Amendment to ensure transparency. He mentioned that a parliamentary committee was empowered to block any nominations.

However, he noted that a petition was filed in the Supreme Court, leading to an urgent 19th Amendment that altered the composition of the Judicial Commission, shifting its focus towards one institution.

"Bar Councils expressed concerns regarding the procedures for appointing judges of the higher judiciary," Tarar said, adding that the Supreme Court Bar Association demanded an amendment to Article 175(3) of the Constitution. He outlined that the proposed Judicial Commission would be chaired by a Supreme Court judge and include four parliament members.

The Chief Justice and judges from the constitutional court will also be part of the commission. "The Judicial Commission will have the authority to form constitutional benches," he added.

Additionally, Tarar stated that the cabinet had decided to vote on amendments proposed by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) to foster broader consensus during the 18th Amendment discussions. He also mentioned that the Speaker of the National Assembly would recommend a non-Muslim representative for the commission.