The ruling coalition failed to table the much-anticipated Constitutional Package in Parliament on Monday, as it could not secure the required two-thirds majority. The package, which includes amendments to fix the Chief Justice of Pakistan’s tenure at three years, was expected to be introduced in both the National Assembly and Senate, but sessions were prorogued after government efforts to garner support fell short.
Senator Irfan Siddiqui of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) confirmed that the package would not be introduced until the coalition was fully prepared. He added that while there was a desire to pass the legislation within two days, it might take another week or two to bring it to Parliament.
Discussions with Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who holds key votes in the Senate, are ongoing. Senator Siddiqui described Fazlur Rehman as “flexible” but said he needed more time to review the package before committing support. The delay comes despite the government’s efforts over the weekend to convince him.
In the Senate, the ruling coalition appears close to securing the 64 votes required, with 52 confirmed and potential backing from the JUI-F and Awami National Party (ANP). However, the National Assembly poses a greater challenge, where the coalition remains three votes short of the required 224, even if the JUI-F’s eight seats are secured.
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif addressed the National Assembly, stating that the legislative package aimed to correct constitutional imbalances, particularly those related to the 19th Amendment. He denied any political motivations behind the proposed changes, emphasising the need to strengthen parliamentary institutions.
The opposition, led by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), remains opposed to the amendments. PTI leader Asad Qaiser hinted that his party might boycott future parliamentary sessions, criticising the government’s handling of the legislative process and calling for public involvement in the matter.
The package has sparked intense political activity, particularly around Maulana Fazlur Rehman, as both government and opposition figures attempt to secure his support. Sources indicate that the JUI-F leader has laid out several conditions for his backing, including political appointments for his son.
The ruling coalition’s ability to pass the amendments hinges on securing these final votes in both houses, with further parliamentary sessions expected in the coming days.
