Tag: Pakistan

Situation Brief: Pakistan’s 26th Constitutional Amendment

Summary

  • Reforms to the Judiciary: The 26th Constitutional Amendment in Pakistan introduces significant changes to the judiciary, including curtailing the Supreme Court’s suo motu powers (ability to act on its own cognizance) and creating specialised constitutional benches​.
  • Judicial Appointments: The amendment restructures the Judicial Commission of Pakistan, increasing parliamentary influence over judicial appointments and adding a technocrat to the selection panel​.
  • Environmental Rights: A new Article 9A guarantees citizens the right to a clean and sustainable environment, reflecting growing environmental concerns​.
  • Supporters’ View: Proponents argue the amendment restores the balance of power between parliament and judiciary, while improving judicial efficiency and transparency​.
  • Critics’ Concerns: Critics, including the opposition and international bodies, warn it undermines judicial independence by increasing political influence and limiting judicial oversight​.
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Pakistan: Situational update & digital campaign analysis

Summary

  • The vote count for Pakistan’s recent election has concluded, with Imran Khan’s allies winning the most seats in the National Assembly, but not enough to form a majority.
  • With no single party having enough seats to create a government independently, hopes of ending political turmoil are dampened. Khan’s party has declared victory and is urging all institutions to respect its mandate.
  • However, there have been protests and petitions challenging the election results, and foreign governments have expressed concerns about irregularities and manipulation.
  • Khan’s populist rhetoric and the country’s internet-savvy youth are reshaping Pakistani politics. His party used social media and AI to reach voters and mobilize support, bypassing state censorship.
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Pakistan: situational brief

Summary

  • Pressures and vulnerabilities: Pakistan faces a precarious economic situation. Growing trade imbalances, high inflation, and a depreciating rupee threaten stability. The IMF loan program offers vital support, but demanding austerity measures fuel public discontent.
  • Political turmoil: Imran Khan’s PTI party faces challenges, including disputes with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) that could impact its standing in the upcoming election. Other parties like PML-N and PPP are seeking alliances to increase their chances of forming the next government.
  • Military’s influence: The Pakistani military continues to wield significant influence, with concerns about its behind-the-scenes role in political manoeuvring. Balancing civilian aspirations with the military’s interests remains a delicate task.
  • Moving Forward: Pakistan’s path ahead hinges on balancing economic reforms with social needs, tackling corruption, and ensuring credible elections. Navigating complex international relations with regional players and managing security concerns along the Afghan border are further hurdles.
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