Pakistan Senate Passes 26th Amendment Amid Political Turmoil

The controversial 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill, capping the tenure of Pakistan's Chief Justice at three years, has passed the Senate with a 65-4 vote, overcoming opposition from Imran Khan's jailed party members. It now awaits approval from the National Assembly and the President to become law.

The Pakistan Senate has approved the contentious 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill, reducing the tenure of the Chief Justice to three years. The bill received a two-thirds majority in the 100-member Senate, marking a key win for the government amid opposition dissent.

The bill proposes setting up a 12-member commission to appoint the Chief Justice and was presented after gaining cabinet consensus. It now awaits discussion in the National Assembly, where a similar majority is required for it to proceed.

Opposition members, including those from Imran Khan's party, have criticized the amendment, citing coercion tactics. PTI leaders abstained from the vote, reflecting internal party disagreements. The bill's passage marks a strategic move by the coalition-ruling government ahead of upcoming political battles.

(With inputs from agencies.)