The federal government has decided to have the 27th Constitutional Amendment passed from both the National Assembly and the Senate by November 14. The decision was made during a meeting of the House Business Advisory Committee, chaired by the Speaker of the National Assembly, where the timeline and procedural sequencing for the amendment were finalized. According to parliamentary sources, the government plans to first move the amendment bill in the Senate before presenting it in the National Assembly, aligning the process with coalition strategy and parliamentary arithmetic.
The government has intensified its efforts to ensure that the amendment receives the required support. To prevent any disruption in attendance and voting strength, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has cancelled the foreign travel plans of federal ministers and members of parliament. This directive reflects the high priority the government has assigned to the passage of the 27th Amendment and demonstrates the necessity of full attendance during the voting sessions in both houses.
In the Senate, the amendment requires a two-thirds majority for approval. This means that 64 votes are needed to pass the amendment. The ruling coalition currently holds 61 seats, which means it still needs support from at least three additional senators. In this context, the government aims to secure the backing of either Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) or the Awami National Party (ANP), both of whom possess the numbers necessary to bridge the gap. Government representatives have been engaged in dialogue with leaders of these parties to ensure their cooperation.
The decision to prioritize Senate approval first is strategic. Unlike the National Assembly, where the ruling alliance holds a relatively stronger number, the Senate presents a more complex political landscape. Discussions and negotiations with coalition partners, independent senators, and smaller opposition parties are expected to continue throughout the coming week. Sources indicate that committee-level deliberations and intra-party consultations are underway to address potential concerns and ensure that the amendment language reflects broader political consensus.
