THE 18th Constitutional Amendment was sold as a watershed moment — a democratic correction that would restore parliamentary supremacy, secure an independent judiciary, and deepen provincial autonomy while finally bringing governance to the grassroots.

It was meant to unshackle Pakistan from centralised authoritarianism, devolving power to the people through Article 140A’s promise of elected local governments. But the very dynastic forces that authored this amendment have since hollowed it out, betraying every ideal they once championed.

Parliamentary supremacy was supposed to mean the people’s will reigning supreme through their elected representatives. Instead, Parliament has been turned into a rubber stamp for elite bargains struck elsewhere. Laws are pushed through without genuine debate, dissent is crushed, and elected representatives........

© Pakistan Observer