Mon Dec 01 03:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text and a news article rewrite, aiming for clarity and conciseness:

Summary:

Pakistan’s government has passed the 27th amendment, establishing a new Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) and curtailing the Supreme Court’s authority. This move is seen as a threat to judicial independence by critics, who argue it gives the executive branch undue influence over the judiciary through judge transfers and by diminishing the Supreme Court’s original jurisdiction in constitutional matters. The amendment follows previous efforts to politicize the judiciary. This has led to resignations, internal divisions within the judiciary, and warnings of potential unrest. A key argument against the change is that it undermines the separation of powers and the independence needed to hold powerful institutions accountable, especially given Pakistan’s history and the influence of the military establishment.

News Article:

Pakistan’s Judiciary Faces Crisis as New Amendment Sparks Controversy

Islamabad, December 1, 2025 — A storm is brewing within Pakistan’s legal system following the recent passage of the 27th amendment to the constitution. The amendment, approved last month, establishes a new Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) with jurisdiction over constitutional matters, a role previously held by the Supreme Court.

Critics are decrying the move as a blatant attempt by the government to undermine judicial independence. They argue the FCC will become a tool for executive overreach and enable the government to appoint judges amenable to its agenda. Concerns are amplified by provisions allowing the transfer of judges without their consent, potentially targeting those who challenge the government.

“This amendment effectively reduces the Supreme Court to a court of appeals,” said a prominent legal analyst. “It’s a serious blow to the separation of powers and the ability of the judiciary to hold the powerful accountable.”

The controversy has already triggered resignations from senior judges and appeals from within the judiciary itself. The establishment of the FCC, including the rapid appointment of a Chief Justice, has further fueled suspicions.

“This is not just about reducing the Supreme Court’s caseload,” one dissenting judge stated in a letter of resignation. “This is about controlling the judiciary and silencing dissent.”

The move is seen as a culmination of earlier efforts to politicize the judicial selection process through the 26th amendment, which altered the composition of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP).

While some within the judiciary have accepted the new FCC, the deep divisions threaten to weaken the institution at a time when Pakistan faces significant political and economic challenges. Some fear it could spark civil unrest.

The passage of the 27th amendment is raising serious questions about the future of judicial independence and the rule of law in Pakistan.

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