The federal government has started considering adding a new clause under the 27th Constitutional Amendment, after which civil servants will have to choose between dual citizenship or employment. According to sources, the government wants to ensure complete loyalty to Pakistan of those appointed in state institutions through this proposed amendment.
According to sources, the government is of the view that when a public representative cannot hold dual citizenship, the same principle should also apply to civil servants. For the amendment, the government has referred to Article 63(1)(c) of the Constitution, which deals with the prohibition of dual citizenship for members of parliament. Now a proposal to add a new clause to the same article is under consideration.
According to reports, after this amendment, there will be no room for government officials with dual citizenship. Sources say that the PPP’s Central Executive Council (CEC) has also considered the matter, where most members supported the amendment, however, a few also expressed some legal concerns. The government says that the proposed move is aimed at ensuring the loyalty of all those holding state positions in Pakistan.
Political analysts say that if this amendment is passed, it will be the first time in Pakistan’s history that dual citizenship will be constitutionally stipulated for civil service. This could set a new standard of transparency and loyalty in state institutions, but its implementation could also create difficulties for officers who acquired citizenship while studying or working abroad.
According to experts, the government will have to adopt a balanced strategy on this issue to ensure protection of both state interests and human rights.
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