Opposition holds protest against 27th Constitutional Amendment

The Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Ayeen-Pakistan (TTAP) on Tuesday held a protest rally against the 27th Constitutional Amendment, marching from Parliament House to the Supreme Court.

- Tariq Butt

The joint opposition alliance chief Mahmood Achakzai and other leaders, including Allama Raja Nasir Abbas, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, members of Parliament, lawyers, and workers, participated in the demonstration before dispersing. The TTAP alliance also announced observing a nationwide "Black Day" to protest what it termed the "ongoing constitutional violations" in the country.

Speaking to newsmen, Abbas said that the march symbolised their struggle for the "protection" of the Constitution, adding that all roads to justice have been "closed" in Pakistan.

"We walked from parliament to the Supreme Court to highlight how all avenues of justice have been closed for the people of Pakistan," he stated.

Abbas said the unanimously agreed-upon Constitution has been turned into a "contested document." He said that no legislation should contradict the spirit of the Constitution.

The TTAP leader went on to say that freedom of expression is being "suppressed" in Pakistan. "People have been silenced, fundamental human rights are being violated, and we will not remain quiet as long as we live," he remarked.

Announcing future course of action, Abbas said that they would observe "Black Day" across the country next Friday, with supporters wearing black armbands. He added that a national conference is also being convened as part of the ongoing movement.

Last week, parliament passed the 27th Constitutional Amendment with a two-thirds majority, changing the judicial structure and military command.

Meanwhile, as the dust settles after the passage of the 27th Amendment Constitutional Amendment, changes have been made to key constitutional and statutory judicial bodies.