The recent proposal for constitutional amendments in Pakistan seeks to enhance the political executive's authority, particularly over the judiciary. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's government has encountered resistance from opposition parties, primarily led by Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), who deem the proposed changes unconstitutional and lacking transparency. The situation has escalated as the government attempts to secure legislative support amidst accusations of undermining judicial independence.

Among the proposed amendments is the establishment of a Federal Constitutional Court, which would specialize in interpreting constitutional clauses. Additionally, the amendments suggest increasing the retirement age for judges in this new court to 68 years, while maintaining a three-year term limit. This shift in judicial structure raises concerns regarding the independence of the judiciary, as the chief justice would be appointed by the president on the prime minister's recommendation, rather than through a Judicial Commission.

Furthermore, the amendments aim to reverse a controversial Supreme Court ruling from May 2022, which restricted legislators from voting against their party's line. The necessity for a two-thirds majority in both houses of parliament presents a significant hurdle for the Sharif government, which currently lacks sufficient votes to pass the amendments. Despite this, government officials remain optimistic about securing the necessary support in the coming days.

The political dynamics have intensified as PTI leaders voice concerns that the proposed changes are a strategic maneuver to undermine their party and facilitate the trial of Imran Khan in a military court. The urgency behind the amendments, particularly with the impending retirement of the current chief justice, has raised suspicions regarding the government's intentions and the potential alteration of power balances between the executive and the judiciary.