Rumors over the 27th Constitutional Amendment stir political unease as leaders debate judiciary powers, curriculum control, and possible changes to presidential qualifications.

Pakistan’s political corridors are abuzz with talk of a proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment, though no formal draft has been presented to the government or opposition leaders.

According to senior parliamentary quoted in TalkShock Program, discussions remain limited to bullet points rather than a written bill.

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Only a few top figures—Asif Ali Zardari, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, and possibly Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif believed to have seen the working version.

The amendment reportedly centers on major judiciary-related changes, widely interpreted as efforts to “clip the judiciary’s wings.”

Proposals include granting authorities the power to transfer judges without their consent and potentially establishing or empowering a Constitutional Court.

Political analysts say these measures could reshape the balance between the judiciary and executive branches.

Another area of contention involves education policy. The proposed amendment is said to revive the idea of a “national curriculum,” allowing the federal government to regain control over certain aspects of education devolved to provinces under the 18th Amendment. Provincial leaders view this as a potential flashpoint in center-province relations.

Persistent rumors suggest a late-hour discussion over Article 41(2), which defines the qualifications for the presidency. While no text has surfaced, insiders claim such an amendment could “open paths” for specific individuals, fueling speculation over its intent.

The process may begin in the Senate as early as Friday, with the session expected to continue through 14 November. Observers note the urgency may relate to the upcoming retirement of a senior judicial figure on 30 November, who could be offered a new role through the amendment. A former Chief Justice may also benefit under the proposed changes.

The Pakistan Peoples Party has maintained what it calls “zero tolerance” for any rollback of the 18th Amendment’s devolution principles, including control over the NFC Award and natural resources. However, PPP lawmakers have been instructed to stay in Islamabad, signaling that final consent from the party’s leadership will determine whether the amendment proceeds.

Opposition parties, particularly PTI and its allies, are expected to oppose any judiciary-related curbs or the creation of a Constitutional Court. Yet, insiders suggest resistance may not extend to all parts of the proposed package. Meanwhile, Senator Faisal Vawda has been lobbying support across party lines, including outreach to Maulana Fazlur Rehman, seeking a comfortable majority rather than a narrow margin.

If consensus falters, parliamentary sources suggest the amendment could be split, passing the judiciary clauses first while deferring devolution or curriculum issues. Such a move could pave the way for a follow-up “28th Amendment” to address unresolved matters.

Outside Parliament, Mahmood Khan Achakzai has announced the launch of a “Tehreek-e-Tahaffuz-e-Aaeen” (Movement for the Protection of the Constitution) starting 14 November in Hyderabad. The campaign, framed as a constitutional defense movement, could trigger protests and potential city shutdowns.

The fate of the 27th Constitutional Amendment—particularly its judiciary reforms, education provisions, and rumored Article 41(2) revision—remains uncertain. Political observers say its passage will depend heavily on PPP’s stance and cross-party consensus in the days ahead.