ISLAMABAD: The federal government has firmly dismissed reports suggesting that it is preparing a 28th Constitutional Amendment, despite recent remarks from some cabinet members that fueled widespread speculation.
Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry categorically rejected claims that any such amendment was being drafted or reviewed. Speaking to The News, he stated on his own behalf and on behalf of Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar:
“There is no 28th Amendment under consideration.”
A senior official at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) also confirmed that no proposal related to a new amendment is under examination.
“There is no such proposal under review,” the official said.
‘Media-Amplified Issue’
Dr Tariq said no meeting had been held on the subject and described the chatter around the amendment as a “media-amplified issue.” He noted that although some proposals previously included in the 27th Amendment package—but later dropped due to lack of political consensus—might be revisited at a later stage, the government is not currently pursuing any constitutional change.
“Right now, there is no consideration for a 28th Constitutional Amendment,” he reiterated, adding that he reconfirmed the position with the law minister.
“Anyone asking about the 28th Amendment is being given the same response—there is no such thing under consideration.”
Speculation Triggered by Cabinet Remarks
Uncertainty over the proposed amendment grew after some cabinet members made public statements suggesting work was underway.
Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political and Public Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, was recently quoted as saying that the government would “soon introduce the 28th Constitutional Amendment.” During a media interaction in Chiniot, he reportedly said the amendment could address local governments, the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, and health-related matters. He acknowledged that consultations were ongoing and that progress would depend on achieving political consensus.
Similarly, State Minister for Law Barrister Adeel Malik was also cited in media reports discussing the possibility of a new amendment. However, he has remained unreachable in recent days and did not respond to phone calls or messages.
