General Musharraf's 17th Amendment to the Constitution of Pakistan in August 2002

General Pervez Musharraf was the President of Pakistan from 1999 to 2008. During his tenure, he introduced several amendments to the Constitution of Pakistan. One of the most significant amendments was the 17th Amendment, which was passed in August 2002. This amendment had several implications for the country's political system and governance.

Background

The 17th Amendment was introduced in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States. Pakistan, as a key ally in the US-led War on Terror, faced immense pressure to crackdown on terrorist organizations operating within its borders. General Musharraf was keen to consolidate his power and ensure that his government had greater control over the country's political system.

Key Provisions of the 17th Amendment

The 17th Amendment made several changes to the Constitution of Pakistan, including:

1. Creation of the National Security Council (NSC)

The NSC was created as a key advisory body to the President on matters of national security and defense. It was composed of senior military and civilian officials, and was tasked with formulating policies and strategies to combat terrorism and maintain national security.

2. Increase in Presidential Powers

The 17th Amendment also increased the powers of the President, particularly in the areas of appointments and dismissals of senior officials. The President was given the power to dissolve the National Assembly, and to appoint governors and judges.

3. Removal of Article 58(2)(b)

Article 58(2)(b) of the Constitution had given the President the power to dissolve the National Assembly. The 17th Amendment removed this provision, thereby making it more difficult for the President to dissolve the Assembly.

4. Establishment of the Election Commission

The 17th Amendment also established the Election Commission, which was tasked with overseeing and conducting free and fair elections in the country.

Implications

The 17th Amendment had several implications for Pakistan's political system and governance, including:

1. Increased Presidential Power

The increase in Presidential powers gave General Musharraf greater control over the country's political system. This led to concerns about the authoritarian nature of his regime, and the erosion of democratic institutions.

2. Creation of the National Security Council

The creation of the NSC gave the military a greater role in the country's governance. This led to concerns about the militarization of the state, and the potential for the military to undermine civilian authority.

3. Removal of Article 58(2)(b)

The removal of Article 58(2)(b) made it more difficult for the President to dissolve the National Assembly, thereby increasing political stability in the country.

4. Establishment of the Election Commission

The establishment of the Election Commission was seen as a positive step towards promoting free and fair elections in the country. However, concerns remained about the independence and effectiveness of the Commission.

Conclusion

In conclusion, General Musharraf's 17th Amendment to the Constitution of Pakistan had significant implications for the country's political system and governance. While it increased Presidential powers and gave the military a greater role in governance, it also led to greater political stability and the establishment of an independent Election Commission. The long-term impact of the 17th Amendment on Pakistan's political trajectory remains to

In august 2002,general pervez mushraf issued a "legal framework order" to ammend the constitution of pakistan. According to this order, the president could dismiss the national or provincial assemblies.