A Call for Justice: The Movement Against the 26th Constitutional Amendment
Recently, a roundtable conference in Islamabad brought together political leaders, human rights advocates, and journalists to address a pressing issue—the 26th Constitutional Amendment. This amendment has raised serious concerns regarding the independence of the judiciary and the Constitution itself. The event revealed a collective determination to tackle what many see as a threat to democratic integrity.
Senior lawyer Hamid Khan articulated the urgency behind this movement, announcing a national convention scheduled for October 11 in Lahore. The conference culminated in the formation of a committee led by Barrister Aitzaz Ahsan. This diverse group, including notable figures like Sardar Latif Khosa and Justice (retd) Shahid Jamil, aims to spearhead the campaign against the amendment.
Participants voiced their concerns passionately. Iman Mazari highlighted the alarming state of justice in the country, urging the need for a public movement to safeguard citizens’ rights. She powerfully stated that without action, “this will be our collective demise.” Meanwhile, Senator Hamid Khan called the amendment a blatant attack on judicial independence, emphasizing that the true essence of democracy is being mocked.
The discussions highlighted a troubling pattern—restrictions have increasingly limited access to both courts and media. For example, the Islamabad High Court has imposed rules that prevent lawyers and journalists from documenting proceedings, curbing transparency and accountability in legal matters. Such measures have only fueled the desire for reform among legal professionals.
Justice (retd) Shahid Jamil reminded the audience of the pressing need for lawyers to rise against the 26th Amendment, warning that neglecting this issue could jeopardize the very existence of the judiciary. Barrister Ahsan echoed this sentiment, recalling the history of sacrifices made by lawyers in their fight for justice.
Participants also criticized the government’s manipulation of the judiciary for political gain. Barrister Ali Zafar’s remarks—that the Constitution has been “thrown into the trash bin”—summed up a shared frustration among attendees. This dissatisfaction was further accentuated by Salman Akram Raja’s assertion that the past few years have marked a time of great oppression, especially with ordinary citizens facing trials in military courts.
Ending the conference on a hopeful note, Khosa proposed a resolution aimed at preserving the nation, protecting journalism, and fostering democratic values. As movements like this gain momentum, the future of justice in Pakistan hangs in the balance.
This unfolding narrative isn’t just a legal matter; it’s a societal imperative. As citizens, staying engaged and informed is crucial for the survival of our democratic process. If you’re passionate about these issues, connect with like-minded individuals and organizations. At Pro21st, we’re dedicated to raising awareness and fostering discussions that matter. Join the conversation and let’s work together for a brighter future.
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