Pakistan’s constitutional evolution reflects the balance and struggle between democracy, military and institutions
In the 52 years since its adoption, Pakistan’s Constitution has undergone 26 amendments, reflecting changes between democratic and military rule that have reshaped 270 of its articles.
According to official records, military leaders and civilian governments made extensive changes to the 1973 Constitution. During periods of martial law, military leaders made significant changes. General Ziaul Haq amended the suspended Constitution 97 times, while General Pervez Musharraf made 37 changes.
Former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto introduced seven constitutional amendments between 1973 and 1977, the first of which, adopted in 1974, amended 17 articles. These changes included the integration of territories administered and affiliated with the federal government and the obligation for citizens to disclose the sources of financing of political parties.
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The second amendment declared Ahmadis (Qadiani and Lahori groups) non-Muslims, while the third increased the limits of preventive detention for those accused of anti-state activities.
Later amendments under Bhutto concerned judicial mandates, provincial representation, and the procedure for a prime minister to seek a vote of confidence by referendum.
After Bhutto’s tenure, General Ziaul Haq introduced three major amendments between 1985 and 1987, revising 27 constitutional clauses and granting constitutional protection to presidential orders and martial law rules.
Learn more: Cabinet postpones meeting on 27th amendment draft
After the end of military rule, Benazir Bhutto’s government adopted the 11th Amendment in 1989, extending the legislature from three to four years.
Later, the 12th Amendment of 1991 created special and appellate courts, while former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s second term saw four amendments, including the 13th, which restored the Prime Minister’s powers reduced under the 8th Amendment.
The 18th Amendment, passed during the tenure of the Pakistan People’s Party, remains the most far-reaching constitutional reform, amending 102 clauses to reverse military-era changes, strengthen provincial autonomy and restrict presidential powers to dissolve Parliament. It also redefined the procedures for appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and department heads.
Subsequent amendments further refined judicial appointments, empowered the Election Commission, and introduced military courts to expedite trials for terrorism-related offenses through the 21st Amendment.
Also read: Government finalizes initial draft of 27th Amendment for cabinet consideration tomorrow
In 2024, Parliament passed the 26th Amendment, introducing significant judicial reforms, including the formation of constitutional benches, the establishment of the Judicial Council and Commission, transfer mechanisms for High Court judges, and term limits for the Chief Justice of Pakistan.
Over five decades, Pakistan’s constitutional evolution continues to reflect the balance and struggle between democracy, military influence, and institutional reform.
