Coalition leaders aim for inclusive legislation following the passage of the judiciary-focused 26th Amendment

In a significant political development, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari convened to discuss the proposed 27th constitutional amendment, which focuses on addressing provincial rights. This meeting comes just a week after the successful passage of the judiciary-centric 26th Amendment, which was approved on October 21, 2024.

During their discussions in Lahore, both leaders expressed their appreciation for the collaborative efforts that led to the 26th Amendment, acknowledging the support from their coalition allies. PM Sharif expressed gratitude to the PPP for its pivotal role in stabilising the economy, highlighting that recent government initiatives have resulted in significant disinflation and improved economic indicators.

Bilawal Bhutto reiterated the PPP’s commitment to working alongside the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) to fortify democracy and strengthen parliamentary processes. He lauded the 26th Amendment as an effective measure to counter undemocratic forces within the country.

Sources privy to the discussions revealed that both parties agreed on the necessity of the 27th Amendment, particularly to address the concerns raised by provincial governments. The meeting also underscored the importance of involving other political entities, including the opposition party Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), to build a consensus around the upcoming legislation.

Rana Sanaullah, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political and Public Affairs, confirmed the focus on the 27th Amendment during the Lahore meeting. He indicated that the ruling coalition intends to incorporate suggestions from various political factions into the constitutional amendment, including the MQM-P’s longstanding demand to amend Article 140A to empower local government structures, particularly concerning financial allocations.

While there was agreement on continuing discussions within the Special Parliamentary Committee led by PPP leader Khursheed Shah regarding constitutional matters, the meeting also highlighted the need for consensus on specific points that remain contentious.

Sanaullah addressed concerns regarding the 26th Amendment, asserting that it is a “perfect” piece of legislation focused on judiciary reforms. He further reassured that the PML-N government would avoid unilateral actions in proposing constitutional amendments, emphasising the importance of collaborative dialogue in parliament.

In contrast, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq expressed uncertainty about any imminent constitutional changes, stating he had no knowledge of the 27th Amendment and would refrain from making controversial remarks.

The 26th Amendment, which established a fixed three-year term for the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) and introduced a deadline for the abolition of interest-based banking by January 1, 2028, faced strong opposition from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). The PTI has branded the reforms as an encroachment on the judiciary’s independence, vowing to reverse the amendments should they return to power.

As the ruling coalition moves forward, the emphasis on provincial rights through the proposed 27th Amendment could redefine the political landscape, fostering greater inclusivity and cooperation among diverse political factions in Pakistan.