JUI-F, PML-N, PPP achieve breakthrough in constitutional amendment talks

LAHORE:

A consensus has been reached between the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan People's Party (PPP), and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) on judicial reforms concerning the 26th Constitutional Amendment, while discussions on other matters are set to continue.

After a dinner hosted at Jati Umra, JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar held a joint press conference on Wednesday. Rehman stated that all three parties have reached an agreement on judicial reforms but other issues are still under negotiation.

He also announced plans to visit Islamabad to meet with the leadership of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in an effort to gain their support for the proposed judicial reforms. "We are working towards consensus on other points as well, and I will also try to reach an agreement with PTI on the matter of judicial reforms," he said.

Rehman maintained that if the government agrees to the JUI-F's draft, they will move forward, but if not, they will continue to reject the government's proposed draft, as they have done in the past. He reiterated that discussions on the constitutional draft are ongoing, and the parties are working towards a mutual agreement.

Bilawal expressed hope that after thorough consultations, the amendment will soon be presented. "We have agreed on judicial reforms, and PPP, PML-N, and JUI-F are committed to bringing about the necessary changes," he stated.

DPM Dar confirmed the agreement, stating that these judicial reforms will ensure faster and more transparent justice for the public.

Earlier, leaders of the political parties met at Jati Umra, hosted by PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif. Attendees also included Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President Asif Ali Zardari, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, and the Attorney General.

Sources revealed that while there are minor concerns raised by JUI-F, efforts are being made to address these issues. Further, a detailed briefing was provided on parliamentary strategy, ensuring sufficient attendance for the amendment's approval.

It is expected that the joint draft of the 26th Amendment will be presented in the National Assembly on October 18, with support from all aligned parties. The PPP and JUI-F had already reached an agreement on the draft, and today's meeting served to further discuss it with PML-N leaders.