Berlin – Analysts and human rights activists in Berlin have warned that Pakistan’s recently passed 27th constitutional amendment will undermine judicial independence and strengthen executive power. This move is expected to further reduce legal protection for those already facing human rights violations and political marginalisation, according to local media reports.
The Balochistan Post reported that a discussion on this issue featured political analyst Rafiullah Kakar and Abdullah Abbas, executive director of the Human Rights Council of Balochistan. The session was moderated by former BBC correspondent Sahar Baloch.
During the discussion, Abbas highlighted that the most severe impact of the amendment will be felt in Balochistan, where human rights groups have long documented cases of enforced disappearances and fake encounters.
He explained, “This law applies across Pakistan, but Balochistan remains a distinct and special case. Years of dehumanisation of dissent and state-sponsored narratives have enabled some of the worst human rights abuses, often justifying them.”
Abbas further noted that the constitution is practically ineffective in Balochistan. “With the 27th amendment, even the little hope for legal recourse is being taken away.”
He accused changes to Pakistan’s anti-terrorism laws of effectively legitimising enforced disappearances. Abbas drew a parallel by stating, “What China has done to the Uyghurs through laws and surveillance is now being repeated in Balochistan,” describing it as an “institutionalisation of repression.”
Political analyst Rafiullah Kakar added that the amendment fundamentally changes the relationship between the judiciary and the executive, as it limits the courts’ power to review or challenge executive decisions.
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