The National Assembly on Tuesday could not hold formal voting on the bill for the 27th constitutional amendment after it was tabled in the Lower House for debate.

The session was adjourned until 11am Wednesday, and sources indicated that the bill is expected to be passed by the National Assembly tomorrow (Wednesday).

Earlier, the National Assembly session, presided over by Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, began with a Fateha (prayer) for the late Senator Irfan Siddiqui.

Law Minister Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar then moved the bill for the 27th constitutional amendment, which was met with strong protests and slogans from opposition members.

Speaking in the House, Senator Tarar stated that the amendment had already been approved by a two-thirds majority in the Senate.

He explained that constitutional courts exist in various countries to resolve constitutional matters, with judicial appointments made through judicial commissions.

Under the proposed bill, the President will have immunity, which will cease to exist immediately upon assuming a public office.

The law minister added that a new procedure for suo motu powers has been introduced in the bill to reduce political or external pressure on the judiciary and to protect the country’s economic system.

During the session, a Pakistan Peoples Party lawmaker moved a motion to end question hour on Wednesday, which was unanimously approved by the House.

The federal government requires 224 votes in the National Assembly to pass the 27th constitutional amendment, and sources indicate it currently enjoys the support of 237 members.

If approved, the prime minister will sign the bill and send it to the president for formal assent, after which the amendments will become part of the Constitution.

Separately, President Asif Zardari is hosting a dinner at Aiwan-e-Sadr tonight in honour of parliamentarians, with members from all parties invited.

Sources said that discussions on the 27th amendment are also expected during the dinner.