PM Shehbaz Sharif Opposes Controversial Immunity Amendment

ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has rejected a move by some party lawmakers to include a provision granting him immunity in the newly proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment. The development comes just a day after the federal government introduced the amendment in the Senate, which proposes major reforms to Pakistan’s judicial system and military command structure.

The Cabinet-approved draft of the amendment had already been referred to the Senate’s Standing Committee on Law and Justice. After returning, PM Sharif disclosed that certain party senators had submitted the controversial immunity clause. While he acknowledged their good intentions, he emphasized that the provision was not part of the official Cabinet-approved draft and called for its immediate withdrawal.

“I believe an elected Prime Minister must remain fully accountable to the law and the people,” PM Sharif said, underlining the importance of transparency and responsibility.

Read more: PM Shehbaz backs Trump’s Peace Legacy in South Asia

The proposed 27th Amendment includes several ambitious reforms. It seeks to establish a Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) to take over some powers currently held by the Supreme Court. It also proposes major changes in judicial appointments and transfers, placing the president and prime minister at the center of the process, while allowing Parliament to decide the number of FCC judges.

Additionally, the amendment plans a historic restructuring of the military leadership. It introduces the position of Chief of Defence Forces, set to lead the armed forces from November 27, 2025. The current army chief will transition into this new role, reshaping Pakistan’s military hierarchy.

This amendment is being seen as one of the most significant constitutional changes in recent years, affecting both judicial oversight and military command in Pakistan.