Ali Hassan Bangwar is a freelance columnist based in Pakistan's Southeastern province of Sindh. He has contributed to The Express Tribune, Daily Times, Pakistan Today and South Asia Magazine. He has over 7 years of journalistic content writing experience including articles, columns and Op-ed for ...

Justice Isa's legacy

27 Oct 2024  |  The Express Tribune  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendments

Justice Qazi Faez Isa's tenure as Chief Justice of Pakistan is criticized for prioritizing powerful patrons over democratic and constitutional principles, leading to compromised judicial independence and fair elections. His actions, including facilitating the 26th constitutional amendment and overturning key judicial decisions, are seen as undermining civil liberties and enabling political defection. The article highlights the division within the judiciary and the erosion of its role in ensuring transparent elections, with hope expressed for his successor to restore judicial independence and uphold civil rights.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendments Judiciary in Pakistan Elections in Pakistan

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Left

Political View

Baker Batte Lule is a journalist based in Kampala, Uganda.

Retired Supreme court judge John Wilson Tsekooko speaks on life after retirement, judiciary corruption, and Uganda's democracy

05 Apr 2023  |  The Observer - Uganda  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendments

Retired Supreme Court judge John Wilson Tsekooko discusses his life post-retirement and reflects on the state of the judiciary and democracy in Uganda. He expresses concern over corruption within the judiciary and the influence of the executive on judicial decisions. Tsekooko recalls his time on the bench, particularly his rulings against President Yoweri Museveni in the 2001 and 2006 presidential election petitions. He also comments on the retirement age for judges, suggesting 75 years as ideal, and touches on the recent constitutional amendment that removed presidential age limits. Tsekooko calls for honesty and respect for human rights among Uganda's leaders and criticizes the exaggeration of achievements and promotion of ethnicity.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendments Judiciary Corruption Retirement of Judges Presidential Election Petitions Judicial Independence Democracy in Uganda

Mark Brewer is a cameraman based in Rome, Italy.

The Ohio Debate Commission presents "OHIO DECIDES: AN ISSUE 1 FORUM"

19 Oct 2023  |  WOUB Public Media  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendment

The Ohio Debate Commission, in collaboration with Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, and Spectrum News, conducted an hour-long forum on Issue 1, a proposed constitutional amendment related to reproductive freedoms. The forum, moderated by Curtis Jackson and featuring journalists Jessie Balmert, Tyler Buchanan, and Karen Kasler, was recorded on October 11, 2023, and released for viewing on October 15.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendment Reproductive Rights

Factual

Factuality Scale

I am based in Dublin as the Guardian's Ireland correspondent, covering Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. From 2012-18 I was based in Los Angeles as the Guardian's US west coast correspondent, covering arts, politics, immigration and the entertainment industry. From 2006-12 I was based ...

Ireland to vote in ‘women in the home’ referendums amid apathy and confusion

08 Mar 2024  |  the Guardian  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendments

Ireland is set to vote on two referendums aimed at removing the 'women in the home' provision from the constitution and introducing amendments on care and family. Despite a lead for a double 'yes' vote, confusion and apathy among voters could result in low turnout and an embarrassing defeat for the government. Critics argue the amendments are vague and uninspiring, while Taoiseach Leo Varadkar warns that a 'no' vote would be a setback for the country.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendments Referendum Women's Rights

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

Romain Chanson is a journalist based in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Radio - Vidéo - Writing

Zimbabwe: The Zanu-PF Bets on By-Elections to Amend the Constitution

09 Dec 2023  |  fr.allafrica.com  |  French  |  Constitutional Amendments

Following a contested presidential election in August, Zimbabwe held by-elections for nine parliamentary seats on December 9. The ruling Zanu-PF party aims to secure a two-thirds majority in Parliament to amend the Constitution, potentially removing presidential term limits. The by-elections were triggered by the disqualification of 14 opposition MPs, a move orchestrated by Sengezo Tshabangu, whose legitimacy is disputed by opposition leader Nelson Chamisa. The judiciary validated the disqualifications, allowing the elections to proceed. Observers suggest that President Emmerson Mnangagwa may seek to extend his tenure, following the precedent set by former President Robert Mugabe.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendments Elections

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

Megan Clement is a journalist and editor specialising in gender, human rights, cities, international development and social policy. She also writes about Paris, where she has lived since 2015. Her reporting has appeared in The Guardian, The Sydney Morning Herald, Bloomberg, Al Jazeera, The New ...

Ireland will vote on whether a woman’s place is in the home

19 Feb 2024  |  Les Glorieuses  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendment

On International Women's Day, Irish citizens will vote in a referendum to potentially replace the 'woman in the home' clause in the constitution, which has been criticized for being outdated and patronizing. The clause, dating from 1937, has never been legally effective in providing rights or economic support for women to stay at home. A citizens' assembly recommended a gender-neutral replacement that would oblige the state to support care, but the government's proposed amendment is seen as a watered-down version that is unlikely to lead to concrete rights. Despite the disappointment, the removal of the 1930s mentality from the constitution is seen as a positive step.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendment Women's Rights Referendum

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Left

Political View

Xave Gregorio is a journalist based in Las Pinas, Philippines. He graduated with honors from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) with a degree in Journalism. With his prior experience as Editor in Chief of TomasinoWeb, the official digital media organization of the UST, he is skilled in multimedia ...

Padilla admits economic Cha-cha push in Senate now dead

25 May 2023  |  www.philstar.com  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendments

The push to amend economic provisions in the Philippine Constitution has been declared dead in the Senate, according to Sen. Robinhood Padilla. The initiative lost momentum following the demotion of Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and lack of support from other senators. Despite this setback, Padilla remains hopeful about other legislative measures like the amended Public Services Act and the Maharlika Investment Fund to attract foreign investments. He also plans to pursue other constitutional amendments related to political provisions.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendments Economic Policy Philippine Politics

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Allan Hall is a journalist based in Berlin, Germany.  Works for London Times, Daily Mail, the sun, Readers Digest and is the author of the best selling Penguin book Monster about the crimes of Joseph Fritzl as well as some 20 other works on crime, the paranormal and the papacy.

Voice to Parliament amendments set referendum up for failure

04 Apr 2023  |  The Scone Advocate  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendment

The proposed amendments to enshrine an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice in the Australian constitution, initially described as advisory by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, have evolved significantly, particularly with South Australia's enactment of its First Nations Voice Act 2023. The act and the Langton/Calma report, which the federal government intends to use as a basis for the Voice, have become central to the referendum debate. The author believes the current amendments do not provide a sufficient foundation for the systemic change recommended by the report and that the referendum will fail if the amendments are not revised. The author suggests the government release a draft of its proposed law and consider repealing the constitution's 'races' power, replacing it with a provision for making special laws for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendment Indigenous Rights Australian Politics

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

Salma Islam is a British journalist based permanently in Cairo, Egypt since September 2013 and has seen the change the country has undergone since President Morsi was deposed. She was also present in Cairo in early 2013 and witnessed the huge demonstrations against Morsi in Tahrir Square and was ...

Egypt’s parliament pushes amendments giving Sisi more power

11 Feb 2023  |  Los Angeles Times  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendments

Egypt's parliament is moving forward with constitutional amendments that could allow President Abdel Fattah Sisi to remain in office until 2034 and increase his control over the judiciary and military. These proposed changes have been met with opposition from some lawmakers, opposition parties, and the public, despite the parliament being dominated by Sisi supporters. Critics argue that the amendments undermine democratic principles and betray the Arab Spring's achievements. A coalition named the Union to Defend the Constitution has been formed to challenge the amendments, but with political parties weakened and the media controlled by the government, the chances of blocking the changes seem slim. The public has expressed opposition through social media, but there is a general sense of apathy towards politics among ordinary Egyptians.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendments Egyptian Politics Presidential Power

Umair Jamal is a correspondent for The Diplomat magazine in Pakistan. He is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Otago, New Zealand. Umair recently joined The Nerve Center as the Coordinator of the institute's Research Division. He was an SAV Visiting Fellow at the Stimson Center in Washington D....

Can Parliament’s Increased Influence Over Appointment of Judges Lead to Political Stability in Pakistan?

01 Oct 2024  |  thediplomat.com  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendment

Pakistan's Parliament has passed the 26th constitutional amendment, shifting power dynamics between the government and judiciary by enhancing parliamentary authority in appointing the chief justice and limiting the Supreme Court's suo motu powers. This move aims to prevent judicial overreach and reduce perceived biases, with Justice Yahya Afridi appointed as the new chief justice. The amendment, seen as controversial, seeks to stabilize Pakistan's political landscape amid concerns about judicial independence and potential biases favoring the opposition party, PTI. Despite resistance from PTI, the amendment was largely supported by major political entities, with Maulana Fazlur Rehman playing a key mediating role. The changes may foster political stability, though political maneuvering is expected to continue.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendment Judicial Reform Political Stability

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

Murat Karabulut is a journalist based in Ankara, Turkey.

In the developing and growing world, the interaction between people will increase;  I believe that the internet and social media will be even more effective.  In this context, I think that the role of the technical team in the media sector ...

İYİ Party leader: 'We are against constitutional amendments that will give Erdoğan another chance to be elected'

23 Oct 2024  |  www.voaturkce.com  |  Turkish  |  Constitutional Amendments

İYİ Parti leader Müsavat Dervişoğlu expressed opposition to any constitutional amendments that would allow President Tayyip Erdoğan another chance to be elected. This statement was made during a response to a question from VOA Türkçe after a group meeting at the Turkish Grand National Assembly, where Dervişoğlu addressed MHP leader Bahçeli.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendments Turkish Politics

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

Badylon Kawanda Bakiman is a journalist based in Kikwit, Congo the Democratic Republic. More than 20 years in journalism with a best experience in article writing, in investigative stories, features, web or blog contents… He is an exemplary business writer on several topics: Agriculture, Education, ...

DR Congo: Former Foes Kabila and Katumbi Join Forces In Constitutional Amendment Fight

02 Jan 2025  |  panafricanvisions.com  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendment

Joseph Kabila and Moïse Katumbi, former political adversaries in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, have united to oppose constitutional amendments proposed by President Tshisekedi's government. They argue that these amendments aim to establish a dictatorship by enabling a life-long presidency. The duo calls for political and social forces to resist these changes, emphasizing the need for peace, national unity, and the preservation of democracy and fundamental rights amidst the country's ongoing crises.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendment Political Alliance

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Left

Political View

Abdulkadir Khalif is a journalist based in Muqdisho, Somalia.

Somalia law review divides political figures down the middle

29 Mar 2024  |  dehai.org  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendments

Somalia's parliament is set to review a series of controversial constitutional amendments proposed by the Independent Constitutional Review and Implementation Commission. The amendments, which include changes to the age of maturity and other significant constitutional elements, have sparked significant opposition from various political figures and organizations. Human Rights Watch has raised concerns about the potential weakening of child protection laws, while former presidents and other political leaders have criticized the process as lacking consensus and being manipulated by the current administration. The debate highlights deep divisions within Somalia's political landscape, with significant implications for the country's governance and human rights commitments.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendments Political Conflict Child Protection

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

William Mapote is a journalist based in Maputo, Mozambique. Have more than 20 year experience in Journalism, with focus on Politics, Economics and Finance, for radio, TV and Print.
Worked as a local stringer to Reuters, Bloomberg and Africa Media Group (Kenia). Locally, worked at Mediacoop, SOICO ...

Revisão pontual da Constituição divide parlamento moçambicano

02 Aug 2023  |  www.voaportugues.com  |  Portuguese  |  Constitutional Amendment

The Mozambican Parliament is set to hold an extraordinary session to discuss a constitutional amendment aimed at removing the mandate for district elections scheduled for next year. The proposal has sparked a divide between the ruling Frelimo party, which supports the amendment as a reflection of popular will, and the opposition Renamo party, which views it as a disregard for the Constitution. Political analyst Dércio Alfazema suggests that while the amendment is timely, a broader reflection on the decentralization model is necessary. The 2024 district elections were initially agreed upon by the late Renamo leader Afonso Dhlakama and President Filipe Nyusi.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendment Political Debate

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

Alyssa Moxley is a writer and audio producer based in Athens, Greece. She is available for investigative reports, detailed cultural analysis, and interviews for print and radio. She is also available for audio recording (for radio or video) needs with high quality equipment. She has expertise in ...

Could One Phone Call Lead to the 28th Amendment?

23 Dec 2024  |  www.nytimes.com  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendment

Congressional Democrats are urging President Biden to make a decisive phone call that could lead to a constitutional amendment enshrining sex equality, potentially transforming women's rights and enhancing his legacy. Annie Karni, a congressional correspondent, explores the feasibility of this plan and Biden's willingness to pursue it. The discussion highlights Senator Kirsten Gillibrand's role in pressing for this amendment, reflecting broader Democratic efforts to address gender equality through constitutional means.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendment Women's Rights Biden Administration

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

I am a Reporter and TV Producer with NewZimbabwe.com, one of Zimbabwe's largest online news sites. Previously I have been with The Mirror (Masvingo) where I was appointed Acting News Editor between 2013 and 2014. I was Editor of MatchDay Zimbabwe a Zimbabwean football magazine.

Currently I am ...

PF's Move to Offer Mnangagwa Third Presidential Term Worries MDC

01 Mar 2024  |  allAfrica.com  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendments

Moves within Zanu PF to secure a third term for President Emmerson Mnangagwa, against Zimbabwe's constitutional limits, have raised concerns from MDC leader Douglas Mwonzora. Despite Mnangagwa being in his final term, calls for his extended stay are growing, with no distancing from Mnangagwa himself. Mwonzora condemned these calls as unconstitutional and damaging to Zimbabwe's democratic image. Zanu PF's parliamentary majority and recent nominations could facilitate constitutional amendments, echoing past concerns over long-term rule seen during Robert Mugabe's presidency. Mwonzora urged adherence to the constitution to avoid further international isolation.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendments Zimbabwean Politics

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

Onai Mushava is a journalist and creative writer based in Harare, Zimbabwe. He was awarded the National Arts Merit Award (NAMA) for Outstanding Fiction Book and nominated as Outstanding Print Journalist in 2018 and for the inaugural Outstanding Poetry Book prize in 2020. Senior writer for This Is ...

Zimbabwean Government Mounts Post-Election Propaganda Campaign

12 Oct 2023  |  UNICORN RIOT  |  English  |  Constitutional amendments

The article discusses the political turmoil in Zimbabwe, focusing on the recent recalls of 15 opposition Members of Parliament by the Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Mudenda, based on a disputed letter. The opposition party, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), led by Nelson Chamisa, has been at odds with the ruling party, Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), which has been accused of orchestrating the recalls to maintain power and potentially amend the constitution to extend the presidential term limit. The recalls have led to a constitutional crisis, with CCC disengaging from Parliament and local government to protest. The article also touches on the historical context of Zimbabwe's politics, the ethnic disenfranchisement in Matebeleland, and the implications of the recall clause in Zimbabwe's constitution. It suggests that the recall clause, originally intended for internal party discipline, has been misused to undermine opposition parties and democracy in Zimbabwe.

Tags:

Constitutional amendments Political unrest in Zimbabwe Parliamentary recalls Election controversies Ethnic disenfranchisement Opposition politics

Lovejoy Sebastian Mutongwiza is an award-winning photojournalist based in Harare, Zimbabwe. (****)

Zim’s Electoral Integrity in Question Amid Proposed Constitutional Amendments

01 Oct 2023  |  www.263chat.com  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendments

The Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) has raised concerns over proposed constitutional amendments that would transfer key electoral responsibilities from the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to the Registrar-General’s Office. ZESN argues that these changes could undermine ZEC's independence and public trust in the electoral system, potentially reverting to a pre-2009 era. The organization emphasizes the importance of maintaining an independent electoral commission to ensure fair elections, drawing comparisons with neighboring countries like Malawi, Zambia, and Kenya. ZESN calls for strengthening ZEC's autonomy rather than altering the Constitution, warning that frequent amendments could destabilize the electoral system and erode public confidence.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendments Electoral Integrity

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

mohsin saleem ullah is a journalist based in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Redefining the judiciary via constitutional amendments

21 Oct 2024  |  The Express Tribune  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendments

The 26th Constitutional Amendment in Pakistan, passed on October 21, 2024, aims to enhance judicial transparency and citizens' welfare by introducing significant changes to the judicial framework. Key provisions include the constitutional guarantee of environmental rights and a revised judicial appointment process involving parliamentary input, which has sparked debate over judicial independence. The amendment also alters the criteria for appointing the Chief Justice of Pakistan and curtails suo motu powers, aiming to improve judicial accountability and efficiency. While critics warn of potential encroachments on judicial autonomy, proponents argue that the changes support democratic and institutional objectives. The amendment marks a pivotal moment in Pakistan's judicial history, with its long-term impact on democratic principles and public interest yet to be determined.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendments Judicial Reform Environmental Rights

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

Haider Sherazi(Haider Shirazi) حیدر شیرازی is a Pakistani journalist and Geo News correspondent, known for his bold and incisive reporting style. He has conducted exclusive interviews with high-profile figures, including:

- Imran Khan
- Shahid Khaqan Abbasi
- Nawaz Sharif
- Shahbaz Sharif
- ...

Alvi tries to win over Fazl as PTI ramps up push to halt disputed legislation

17 Sept 2024  |  www.geo.tv  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendments

Dr Arif Alvi, a PTI leader, met with JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman to discuss the contentious judiciary-centric constitutional amendments. The government, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, seeks a two-thirds majority in parliament to pass these amendments, which include extending the tenure of Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa. However, the ruling coalition lacks the necessary votes, leading to an indefinite postponement of the legislation. Opposition parties, including PTI and JUI-F, criticize the government's secrecy and demand a parliamentary debate. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari of the PPP also engaged in discussions with Fazl, but no conclusive agreement was reached. The JUI-F agreed on forming a constitutional court but has reservations about its implementation.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendments Political Negotiations

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

Anand Tumurtogoo is a seasoned journalist with a passion for visual journalism. With a keen eye for detail and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Anand has contributed to numerous media outlets. He has worked with AFP, Reuters, FP, ProPublica. His work is driven by a commitment to informing and ...

A charter under siege

13 Feb 2023  |  Asia Democracy Chronicles  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendments

Mongolia, a democratic outlier in a region dominated by autocracies, faces potential threats to its democratic values as the government considers controversial constitutional amendments. Legal experts and rights advocates express concerns over the lack of transparency and the political motivations behind these changes. The ruling Mongolian People’s Party (MPP) is pushing for amendments that could consolidate power, despite public protests and a recent coal-theft scandal. The constitutional court's recent decisions and the swift legislative actions have raised alarms about the erosion of democratic principles in Mongolia.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendments Democracy Political Stability

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

Carlos Viguria is a journalist based in Lima, Perú. My experience includes political reports and investigations in prime TV programs such as 'Al estilo Juliana'. I have also published reports in Peru21, a national newspaper in Perú. I have experience working on Politics, interviews and ...

Congress began debate to approve reform for a fourth legislature

01 Oct 2023  |  peru21.pe  |  Spanish  |  Constitutional Amendments

The Congress of Peru began debating a proposed reform to create a fourth legislature, aimed at facilitating constitutional amendments. Luis Valdez and Omar Chehade of APP support the initiative, emphasizing its potential to address fundamental rights and anti-corruption measures. However, the proposal faces opposition from Martha Chávez and Betto Barrionuevo, who criticize the rapid approval process and the necessity of the reform.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendments Political Reform

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Right

Political View

Kossi Woussou is a journalist based in Lomé, Togo, with a distinguished career in reporting on West African politics. His expertise particularly shines in covering the economical, social and political developments in Togo and West Africa. 

As a correspondent for Voice of America (VOA Africa) and ...

Togo Family Dynasty Set to Extend Rule Indefinitely After Vote

27 Mar 2024  |  BNN  |  English  |  Constitutional Amendment

Togo President Faure Gnassingbé is poised to maintain power indefinitely as his party, the Union for the Republic, is expected to keep its majority in the parliamentary elections. This follows a constitutional amendment transferring significant power to the president of a council of ministers, a position without term limits that Gnassingbé is likely to assume. The amendment has been criticized for undermining democracy, as Togo and the region experience democratic backsliding and coups. The US State Department expressed concern over the lack of transparency in the constitutional change process. Despite Togo's economic growth and a new IMF program, poverty remains widespread. The opposition, participating after a boycott in 2018, has urged a large turnout to protest the amendment. Critics argue the new parliamentary system will weaken opposition efforts to challenge Gnassingbé in future elections.

Tags:

Constitutional Amendment Election Political Change

Informative

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View