Senate passes Pakistan's key reform bill

TWO-THIRDS MAJORITY ACHIEVED DESPITE BOYCOTT BY OPPOSITION

- BY STEPHEN N.R.

The Senate of Pakistan yesterday passed the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill, a landmark piece of legislation proposing sweeping judicial and military reforms, amid protests and a walkout by opposition lawmakers.

According to Pakistani media reports, including Dawn and Geo News, the bill was approved after 64 members voted in favour — achieving the required two-thirds majority in the 96-member Upper House. No votes were cast against the bill as the opposition benches boycotted the division, paving the way for its smooth passage.

Changes to judiciary, army