Monday, February 17, 2025

Constitutional Amendments ‘Key is in Maulana’s Pocket as He Terms Government’s Draft Unacceptable

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In a notable development, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), has categorically rejected the government’s proposed constitutional amendments.

Maulana has outright dismissed the government’s draft of constitutional amendments, calling it unacceptable.

During an informal media interaction at the residence of PTI leader Asad Qaiser, Fazlur Rehman revealed that the government’s draft was entirely rejected after review. He questioned the legitimacy of the process, asking, “Now they claim it wasn’t even their draft. What kind of game is being played?”

Despite previous attempts by government and opposition representatives to gain his support, Fazlur Rehman stood firm that the draft was unacceptable under any circumstances.

He also refrained from commenting on PTI Chairman Imran Khan’s statements from Adiala Jail. Former President Arif Alvi and senior PTI leader Raoof Hasan were also present at the luncheon hosted by Qaiser, who had invited Fazlur Rehman to discuss the amendments.

Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), emphasized that constitutional amendments cannot proceed without Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s backing. In a TV interview, Bilawal highlighted the need for consensus with JUI-F to advance the proposed reforms. He noted that JUI-F is working on its own amendments and that engaging Fazlur Rehman is critical for progress.

Bilawal added that if Fazlur Rehman agrees, the process could advance within a month or two. He mentioned that the government has addressed many of the PPP’s concerns and is hopeful for mutual acceptance of proposals. The PPP is also advocating for a new committee, as suggested by JUI-F, to include parliamentary members, judges, and bar representatives in the judicial appointment process.

Key proposed amendments include the creation of a Federal Constitutional Court (FSC) alongside the Supreme Court and changes to Article 63A, which would modify how votes by defecting lawmakers are counted. Reforms to the judicial appointment process are also part of the proposal.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif defended the amendments as a means to address constitutional imbalances and reduce judicial backlog, arguing that they are in line with the Charter of Democracy (COD) signed by PML-N and PPP.

The government intends to reintroduce the bill once a consensus is reached, but with Fazlur Rehman’s firm position, the timing of its presentation in parliament remains uncertain.


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