In light of Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s firm opposition to the proposed constitutional package introduced by the PML-N, the coalition government has intensified efforts to seek support from other political parties. The objective remains to build consensus on the amendments to the Constitution, despite the setback from JUI-F’s outright rejection.
During a press conference following a meeting between JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman and PTI representatives at Asad Qaiser’s residence, Fazl reiterated his party’s stance. “We have completely rejected the proposed package, especially when the government itself acknowledges that there’s no formal draft,” he remarked. Fazl also emphasised that his party had never agreed to back the package and questioned the nature of the document shared with JUI-F, challenging the government’s claim of it merely being a ‘working paper.’
The government, in an attempt to manage the situation, stated that the draft circulating on social media was just a preliminary document. This clarification, however, did little to quell the controversy.
Following the meeting, former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser indicated that both PTI and JUI-F were coordinating efforts within the parliament. He also pointed out that even the ruling coalition’s lawmakers had not seen the final version of the proposed amendments.
This alignment between PTI and JUI-F raised concerns within the government, prompting Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to meet with Maulana Fazlur Rehman again. Naqvi, who had previously failed to secure Fazl’s cooperation, sought to convince him to side with the government on this matter. Despite these efforts, the JUI-F chief remained unconvinced.
Efforts to build consensus
Despite the rejection, the government remains optimistic. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif claimed that the PML-N and PPP were united on the package. The amendments include increasing the number of Supreme Court judges from 17 to 23, setting a three-year term for the Chief Justice of Pakistan, and the creation of a constitutional court. Asif expressed confidence that a consensus document would soon be presented and suggested that JUI-F might still be brought on board.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar echoed Asif’s sentiment, affirming that consultations with all political parties were ongoing and that no party would be allowed to manipulate the situation for political gain. He noted that the draft had been shared with several key players, including PPP, JUI-F, and other parties, and that each section was being scrutinised in discussions.
Tarar also announced plans for a parliamentary committee meeting to further deliberate on the package, adding that the Balochistan National Party (BNP) was also involved in these discussions.
In response to concerns over external influences, Tarar clarified that the package was devised by the law ministry, under the guidance of Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, dismissing claims that it had been developed elsewhere.
No extension for judges
Amidst the ongoing consultations, PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui sought to dispel rumours surrounding potential extensions for the judiciary. In a televised interview, Siddiqui refuted speculation about extending the tenure of the Chief Justice or raising the retirement age for judges, attributing such talk to media misinformation. He reaffirmed that the constitutional package was still progressing and expressed optimism that JUI-F would eventually lend its support.
Siddiqui also highlighted the collaborative efforts between coalition partners PML-N and PPP, indicating that other parties, such as ANP and MQM-Pakistan, were being consulted. He expressed confidence that a broad consensus would be reached to push the amendments through parliament.
Despite the current impasse, the government appears determined to move forward with its proposed constitutional reforms.