Pakistan Alters Constitution to Allow Parliament to Select Chief Justice

The controversial amendment, passed in a secretive session, raises concerns over judicial independence and possible government influence.

The 26th Constitutional Amendment was passed by Pakistan's parliament, empowering a parliamentary committee to select the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
The amendment has been criticized for undermining judicial independence, with allegations of coercion and bribery to secure votes in favor of the bill.
The ruling coalition, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, argues the amendment affirms parliamentary supremacy and addresses judicial overreach.
Opposition parties and legal experts fear the changes will lead to a judiciary that is more compliant with government interests, particularly in cases involving former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
The amendment was passed amid ongoing political tensions, with Khan's supporters protesting his imprisonment and the alleged rigging of February's elections.