Pakistan’s constitutional evolution reflects the balance and struggle between democracy, military and institutions.
In the 52 years since its adoption, Pakistan’s Constitution has undergone 26 amendments, reflecting changes in democratic and military regimes that reformed 270 of its articles.
According to official records, both military rulers and civilian governments made far-reaching changes to the 1973 Constitution. During periods of martial law, military leaders made important modifications. General Ziaul Haq amended the suspended Constitution 97 times, while General Pervez Musharraf made 37 changes.
Former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto introduced seven constitutional amendments between 1973 and 1977, the first of which, passed in 1974, amended 17 articles. These changes included the integration of federally affiliated and administered territories, and forced citizens to reveal the sources of financing of political parties.
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The second amendment declared Ahmadis (Qadiani and Lahori groups) non-Muslims, while the third increased preventive detention limits for those accused of anti-state activities.
Bhutto’s later amendments addressed judicial mandates, provincial representation and the procedure for a prime minister to seek a vote of confidence through a referendum.
Following Bhutto’s rule, General Ziaul Haq introduced three major amendments between 1985 and 1987, revising 27 constitutional clauses and granting constitutional protection to presidential orders and martial law rules.
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Following the end of military rule, Benazir Bhutto’s government passed the Eleventh Amendment in 1989, extending the parliamentary term from three to four years.
Later, the 12th Amendment of 1991 established special and appellate courts, while four amendments occurred during former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s second term, including the 13th, which restored the prime minister’s powers restricted under the 8th Amendment.
The 18th Amendment, passed during the Pakistan People’s Party’s rule, remains the most comprehensive constitutional reform, amending 102 clauses to reverse military-era changes, enhance provincial autonomy and restrict presidential powers to dissolve Parliament. It also redefined the procedures for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner and service chiefs.
Later amendments further refined judicial appointments, empowered the Election Commission, and introduced military courts to expedite trials of terrorism-related crimes through the 21st Amendment.
Also read: Government finalizes initial draft of 27th Amendment for cabinet review tomorrow
In 2024, Parliament passed the 26th Amendment, which introduced major judicial reforms, including the formation of constitutional courts, the establishment of the Judicial Council and Commission, transfer mechanisms of High Court judges, and term limits for the Chief Justice of Pakistan.
Over five decades, Pakistan’s constitutional evolution continues to reflect the balance and struggle between democracy, military influence and institutional reform.
