On September 15, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar led a government delegation to meet JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman in Islamabad.
During the talks, Fazlur Rehman declined to support the government on two critical issues: extending judges’ tenure and increasing their retirement age. His stance has created a significant roadblock for the ruling coalition, which is trying to secure enough votes to pass its proposed constitutional amendments, particularly concerning judicial and parliamentary reforms.
Opposition parties, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have conditionally backed the creation of a constitutional court but remain split over the issue of judges’ tenure extension. Despite multiple discussions in a special parliamentary committee, no consensus has been reached, causing delays in both the National Assembly and Senate sessions. Similarly, the federal cabinet’s discussion on the draft amendments has also been postponed.
The government is pushing hard to pass the constitutional package, which would reportedly increase its influence over judicial proceedings.
However, Fazlur Rehman’s decision is pivotal, with both the ruling coalition and the opposition seeking his support.
Talks between government and opposition leaders, including high-profile figures like Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and PTI members, took place throughout the day.
Although Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has stated that the government has the necessary votes, he admitted that Fazlur Rehman’s backing remains crucial. The proposed amendments aim to bring significant changes, see including the establishment of a constitutional court, reforms in the process of selecting judges, and adjustments to parliamentary representation.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on JUI-F and other influential players to see whether the government can secure enough support to push the amendments through.