Bilawal seeks to pacify Nawaz after tweak tirade

ISLAMABAD:

A day after slamming the government for its bungled attempt to pass constitutional amendments through parliament, Pakistan People's Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari met with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif on Thursday. The meeting aimed at damage control and to reaffirm a commitment to building broader consensus on constitutional amendments and judicial reforms.

The three-time former premier and ex-foreign minister met at the Punjab House, Islamabad, to deliberate on the country's pressing issues, including establishment of a federal constitutional court in the country and the importance of building political consensus around constitutional amendments and judicial reforms.

The meeting has come at a time when both PPP and PML-N have been striving to forge consensus among political parties regarding key amendments to the Constitution after their attempt to pass the proposed bill from parliament fell flat last month.

In September, the PML-N-led ruling coalition was left red-faced as it failed to table the much-desired constitutional amendment bill of the government after failing to persuade Jamiat Ulma-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman to vote in favour of the 'secretly' proposed package.

In the meeting on Thursday, PPP chairman emphasized the need for unity, underscoring that the amendments should be passed through consensus, reflecting a shared commitment to national progress.

"I desire that constitutional amendments are approved with the consensus of all political parties," Bilawal conveyed to Nawaz Sharif. In response, a statement issued by PPP said, Nawaz assured Bilawal of PML-N's unwavering support for every proposal that aims to benefit the country.

Bilawal also highlighted the need for swift justice, emphasizing that constitutional amendments aimed at reforming the judiciary are not just necessary but unavoidable. "If Pakistan is to move forward, we must establish parliamentary supremacy by carrying out judicial reforms," he stated. He argued that only through a balanced distribution of powers between institutions can Pakistan achieve sustainable development.

Nawaz echoed this sentiment, asserting that the country's progress lies in achieving a fair judicial system - where no individual holds unchecked power. "We must create a system of justice through parliament where the supremacy of individuals is avoided, and the will of the people and respect for institutions are upheld," Nawaz said.

Statements from both the parties conveyed that both the leaders underscored that the country's prosperity and global standing depend on unity and sustained collaboration among all democratic forces.

The two leaders also revisited the spirit of the Charter of Democracy, an agreement signed in 2006 between the two parties to strengthen democratic norms and resist anti-democratic forces. They acknowledged that the charter had laid the foundation for political stability in Pakistan, allowing the parliament to complete its term while fending off undemocratic challenges.

"We want to create an atmosphere of consensus to implement the Charter of Democracy," Bilawal reiterated, stressing that adherence to this agreement remains crucial for ensuring democratic stability in the country. He added political disorder fueled by undemocratic behavior continues to plague Pakistan, which makes the need for judicial reforms and constitutional amendments even more pressing.

In the meeting, they also touched upon Pakistan's growing international stature, particularly welcoming the arrival of a Saudi investment delegation and Pakistan's hosting the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). They viewed these developments as positive signs for Pakistan's global standing and economic trajectory, underscoring that these achievements are rooted in political unity and cooperation.

While reflecting on the Charter of Democracy, a statement from PML-N said, Nawaz praised Bilawal's leadership, recognizing his political vision and commitment to democratic ideals. "Your political capital, vision and experience are greatly valued," Bilawal responded, acknowledging the need for Nawaz's continued political wisdom to guide the country during these challenging times.

Both parties agreed that moving forward requires political tolerance, adherence to constitutional norms and respect for parliamentary supremacy.

The leaders of the PPP and PML-N were joined by senior party figures, including Yousuf Raza Gilani, Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Ahsan Iqbal, Khursheed Shah, Maryam Aurangzeb and others.