PTI Faces Internal Turmoil as Key Vote Approaches

ISLAMABAD: The political landscape in Pakistan is witnessing significant turmoil as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party faces internal challenges. With a crucial vote on constitutional amendments approaching, PTI has reportedly lost contact with 12 of its lawmakers, which includes 2 senators and 10 members of the National Assembly (MNAs). This situation raises serious concerns about the party's unity and strategy as it prepares for a pivotal moment in the legislative process.

According to sources within the party, opposition leader Omar Ayub has been unable to reach 7 MNAs, while PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has lost contact with 2 senators. The lawmakers who are currently unresponsive include notable figures such as Zain Qureshi, Zahoor Qureshi, Aslam Ghuman, Usman Ali, Riaz Fatyana, Mukhtar Hussain, Chaudhry Ilyas, Aurangzeb Kachhi, Murad Zeeshan Khan, and Aniqa Mehdi. This disconnection comes at a time when PTI has decided to boycott the upcoming voting process for the constitutional amendments in both houses of parliament.

In an official statement released by the PTI Political Committee, the party has expressed its intention to protest against any of its members in the National Assembly or Senate who choose to participate in the voting. The party accuses the current government of lacking the moral and constitutional legitimacy required to amend the constitution. This stance reflects PTI's commitment to its principles, even in the face of potential defections.

Adding to the tension, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan has voiced concerns that two of the party’s senators, Zarqa Taimur and Faisal Salim, may vote in favor of the constitutional amendments, which would directly contradict the party's position. “I think our two senators, Zarqa Taimur and Faisal Salim, are going to vote against the party policy,” Gohar remarked, highlighting the internal strife that could further weaken PTI's influence.

Meanwhile, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar has announced that the draft of the constitutional amendment package is set to be presented before the federal cabinet today (Sunday) for formal approval. This draft includes suggestions from JUI-F Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, following extensive discussions among key political figures. On Saturday, Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s residence became a hub of political activity, with prominent leaders such as Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and Balochistan National Party leader Akhtar Mengal gathering to strategize.

After a series of meetings, the sessions of the National Assembly and Senate were postponed, leading to the deferral of the presentation of the constitutional amendments draft to Sunday. This delay indicates the complexities involved in the legislative process and the ongoing negotiations among various political factions.

As the situation unfolds, the implications of these developments could be far-reaching. The potential defection of PTI lawmakers and the party's decision to boycott the vote may significantly impact the outcome of the constitutional amendments. It remains to be seen how PTI will navigate these challenges and whether it can maintain its cohesion in the face of adversity. The coming days will be crucial for PTI as it seeks to assert its position in Pakistan's ever-evolving political arena.