A recent declaration by President Arif Alvi has ignited a contentious debate over the amendments made to the Official Secrets Act and the Pakistan Army Act. Alvi denied signing the bills in question, sparking a clash with the caretaker law ministry. The perplexing situation brings into question the legal status of these amendments and highlights a potential breach within the decision-making process.
Presidential Disavowal to Sign the Official Secrets Act and the Pakistan Army Act
President Alvi’s unequivocal statement on social media platform X shook the political landscape. He expressed, “As God is my witness, I did not sign Official Secrets Amendment Bill, 2023, and Pakistan Army Amendment Bill, 2023 as I disagreed with these laws.” Alvi revealed that he instructed his staff to return the bills unsigned within the stipulated timeframe to render them ineffective; however, a surprising revelation came to light, unveiling that his staff may not have complied with his directives.
Legal Ambiguity and Political Implications
The President House’s silence on the matter adds to the prevailing uncertainty. Despite Alvi’s denial, the Senate Secretariat issued a gazette notification deeming the bills as “assented by the president.” The Official Secrets (Amendment) Bill, 2023 was deemed to be approved on 17th August, and the Pakistan Army (Amendment) Bill, 2023 from 11th August. These amendments hold immense implications, introducing new offenses and penalties related to unauthorized disclosures, military engagement in politics, and more.
The ongoing scenario raises questions about transparency, accountability, and the integrity of decision-making processes. Opposition parties, including the PTI, have expressed their intent to take the matter to the Supreme Court. This legal confrontation adds an additional layer of complexity to an already intricate situation, with constitutional and democratic values hanging in the balance.
Also read: Shah Mahmood Qureshi Arrested in Cipher Case Under Official Secrets Act
