Pak president stripped of powers to dismiss elected govt

The Pakistani senate and national assembly have unanimously adopted a constitutional amendment, stripping the president of powers to dismiss the prime minister, dissolve the national assembly and appoint provincial governors.

The amendment, which enjoyed over two thirds majority in both the houses, has restored to the prime minister's office all democratic powers which it was deprived of by the late General Zia-ul Haq when he had introduced the Eighth Amendment to the constitution.

The bill's passage has now restored the provisions of the 1975 constitution by which the prime minister can appoint governors, services chiefs and joint chiefs of staff through his recommendations to the president.

The Eighth Amendment of General Zia-ul Haq had been a Damocles sword over all governments since 1983. Former premier Benazir Bhutto had fallen victim to it twice.

Obviously, the bill's passage was fully supported by opposition leader Benazir Bhutto and leaders of all other parties.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has said a new spirit has been infused in the democratic system and the government will continue seeking guidance from the opposition and other parties to further strengthen the system.

Sharif announced in the house that the government would seek cooperation from all and not resort to victimisation.

He also announced that for further amendments proposed by Benazir Bhutto, a committee would be set up to draft a package which would propose repeal of controversial articles and clauses.

Speaking in the national assembly, Benazir Bhutto congratulated Sharif for his bold decision and described it as historic.

The national assembly passed the bill with 199 votes while the senate adopted the bill with 79 votes. None voted against the bill in both the houses.

UNI