Pakistan’s constitutional history dates back to the country’s creation in 1947. Since then, Pakistan has had several constitutions, each reflecting the political and social realities of the time.
The first constitution of Pakistan was adopted in 1956, four years after the country gained independence from British colonial rule. This constitution established Pakistan as an Islamic Republic and provided for a parliamentary form of government, with the Prime Minister as the head of government and a President as the ceremonial head of state. However, this constitution was abrogated in 1958 when the military assumed power in a coup.
In 1962, the military government promulgated a new constitution which established a presidential form of government. This constitution was also abrogated in 1972 when the military government was ousted from power.
The third constitution of Pakistan was adopted in 1973, following the restoration of democracy. This constitution restored the parliamentary form of government and established a federal system of government, with powers divided between the federal government and the provinces. The constitution also declared Islam as the state religion and provided for a system of Islamic law.
Since 1973, Pakistan has undergone several periods of military rule, during which the constitution was either abrogated or suspended. In 2010, the 18th Amendment to the Constitution was adopted, which restored the parliamentary system of government and devolved greater powers to the provinces.
In 2018, the current government adopted the 25th Amendment to the Constitution, which provided for greater representation of the tribal areas in the national assembly and extended certain constitutional protections to the region.
Overall, Pakistan’s constitutional history has been marked by a series of political and social challenges, including military coups, political instability, and regional conflicts. However, despite these challenges, Pakistan’s constitution remains a key pillar of the country’s democracy and serves as a framework for the protection of the rights and freedoms of its citizens.
