Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari Issues Warning Over Constitutional Amendments in Pakistan

In a significant political development, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has issued a stern warning regarding the urgency of passing a judiciary-centric constitutional amendment. The deadline for this amendment is set for October 25, coinciding with the retirement date of the current Chief Justice of Pakistan, Qazi Faez Isa. The coalition government, which includes the PPP, is determined to push through this constitutional package, but it faces considerable challenges.

Last month, the government attempted to pass a closely-guarded constitutional package but was met with resistance. The effort was thwarted when Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman declined to support the initiative. This refusal left the proposed amendments in a precarious position, as the government was short of the necessary votes to secure a two-thirds majority in both the National Assembly and the Senate.

During an informal discussion with journalists, Bilawal emphasized the potential for a “face-off” situation if the amendments are not passed by the looming deadline. He stated, “Matter will be resolved peacefully, if the amendment passed before October 25 […] Otherwise, the situation would lead to confrontation.” This statement underscores the high stakes involved in the legislative process and the potential for political unrest.

Bilawal further articulated the PPP’s commitment to pursuing the constitutional court matter, a goal he attributes to the Charter of Democracy established by his mother, the late Benazir Bhutto. He believes that the 18th Amendment has been pivotal in restoring the supremacy of the Constitution in Pakistan and curtailing dictatorial powers.

In his remarks, Bilawal questioned the timing of judicial decisions, particularly referencing the Supreme Court’s May 6 judgment that suspended the Election Commission of Pakistan’s order regarding reserved seats for women and minorities. He expressed concern over the implications of such decisions on the ruling coalition, which has already lost its two-thirds majority in parliament.

Bilawal also highlighted the need for the judiciary to remain apolitical, asserting that the proposed constitutional amendment is not aimed at any individual but rather at reforming the judicial system as a whole. He acknowledged that the federal government had not adequately consulted its coalition partners regarding the proposed amendments, suggesting that a more collaborative approach could have been beneficial.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, the urgency of passing the constitutional amendments becomes increasingly apparent. The potential for confrontation looms large, and the implications of these amendments could shape the future of Pakistan’s judicial system. The PPP’s commitment to reform and the call for a constitutional court reflect a broader desire for stability and accountability within the country’s governance structures.

The situation remains fluid, and the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the coalition government can rally the necessary support to pass the amendments before the October 25 deadline. The outcome will not only affect the current judiciary but could also set a precedent for future governance in Pakistan. As citizens watch closely, the hope is for a resolution that upholds democratic principles and strengthens the rule of law.