27th amendment: Law minister calls for provincial accountability

State Minister for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik has said that while the federal government bears most of the country’s financial burden, it is important that provinces are also held accountable. He added that the Constitution is not a sacred text and can be amended according to time and necessity.

Speaking on a private television programme, Barrister Aqeel clarified that during the passage of the 26th constitutional amendment, no hasty decisions were made due to anyone’s retirement, and similarly, the 27th amendment is not being finalised without consultation.

He said detailed discussions on the matter are ongoing and emphasised that the 27th amendment concerns issues of national interest. “This is not about benefiting or harming any political party,” he added.

Barrister Aqeel further stated that the government intends to have the 27th constitutional amendment passed by both houses of Parliament by November 14. He noted that the opposition has already started making political statements without proper consideration, urging them instead to present their views in the Standing Committee and on the floor of Parliament.

The minister also highlighted that under the NFC Award, the federal government provides 57 percent of its revenue to the provinces, while major expenses such as defence, pensions, social protection, and debt repayments remain the responsibility of the federal government.

He said it is a matter of concern if only the federal government bears these costs without accountability from the provinces. Barrister Aqeel stressed that provinces must also play an equal role in reducing the federal financial burden to ensure the fair and efficient use of resources.