Talks with PPP Begin on Proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment
The federal government of Pakistan is preparing to introduce changes to the 18th Constitutional Amendment, focusing primarily on fiscal devolution and governance challenges that have arisen since its passage. To move forward, the government has decided to initiate consultations with key political allies, starting with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), a key architect of the original amendment.
According to official sources, the proposed 27th Amendment will only be tabled in Parliament if a political consensus is reached. Talks are expected to begin during the current session of the National Assembly, with initial efforts directed at bringing the PPP on board. Once a framework of agreement is established, other political parties will be engaged, though all details of the discussions will be kept confidential until a broader consensus is finalized.
Focus on Fiscal Autonomy and Governance Gaps
The 18th Amendment, passed in 2010, devolved several critical powers from the federal government to the provinces. However, officials argue that many of those devolved powers remain unimplemented or partially enforced, primarily due to unclear administrative mechanisms and legal frameworks. Several provinces have yet to fully operationalize ministries that were granted to them under the amendment.
The federal government is particularly concerned with issues related to fiscal autonomy, and is reportedly considering proposals to redefine the role of local governments and adjust the federal share in the National Finance Commission (NFC) award. These potential revisions aim to balance fiscal responsibilities and improve the implementation of devolution.
A Cabinet Committee on Law is currently reviewing the proposed changes. While the government may have enough support in the National Assembly with the PPP’s backing, it would still face challenges in the Senate, where a two-thirds majority is required for any constitutional amendment to pass.
