Course description

The Constitution of Pakistan outlines the fundamental principles of the country’s governance and laws. Pakistan has had several constitutions and amendments since its inception in 1947:

1. 1947 - Independence Act (Constitutional Framework): Initially, the Government of India Act 1935, with modifications, was adopted as the interim constitution after Pakistan gained independence. It didn’t serve as a fully drafted constitution.

2. 1956 - First Constitution: Pakistan adopted its first constitution on March 23, 1956. This constitution declared Pakistan as a republic, established the office of the President, and emphasized parliamentary governance. However, it was abrogated in 1958 due to a military coup.

3. 1962 - Second Constitution: General Ayub Khan promulgated a new constitution, which created a presidential system and centralized powers in the office of the President. This constitution was altered several times, particularly to increase the military's power.

4. 1973 - Current Constitution: The Constitution of 1973, passed by the National Assembly under Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, is the basis of Pakistan's legal and governmental structure today. It established a parliamentary system with a bicameral legislature. This constitution has undergone multiple amendments, notably:

   • 8th Amendment (1985): Empowered the President to dismiss the government, which was later repealed by the 18th Amendment in 2010.
   • 17th Amendment (2003): Enhanced presidential powers, including control over the military.
   • 18th Amendment (2010): Significantly curtailed the President's powers, restored parliamentary sovereignty, and devolved more powers to provincial governments.

Throughout its history, Pakistan’s constitution has been amended multiple times, largely in response to political instability, military influence, and attempts to balance power between different institutions.

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