We have sufficient numbers, even without Fazl's consensus: Khawaja Asif

Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has stated that even if consensus is not reached with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the numbers are still sufficient for the planned constitutional amendments

While speaking to the media, the Defence Minister said that efforts are being made to create consensus on the 26th Constitutional Amendment. However, even if an agreement with Maulana Fazlur Rehman is not reached, the government still has enough numbers.

When asked by a journalist whether any flexibility was shown by JUI-F or Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) or if any response was received from them, Khawaja Asif replied that it would be premature for him to answer that question.

Another journalist asked if the government would still have the required numbers if no consensus is reached with JUI, to which Khawaja Asif responded, "Alhamdulillah, the government has sufficient numbers."

Akhtar Mengal refuses to support constitutional amendments

Meanwhile Akhtar Mengal, leader of the Balochistan National Party (BNP), has accused the government of abducting two of his party's senators along with their families. In light of this, Akhtar Mengal has announced that he will not support the constitutional amendments currently under discussion in Pakistan.

Speaking to the media outside Maulana Fazlur Rehman's residence in Islamabad, Mengal voiced his frustration over the government's actions, questioning the urgency behind pushing through the constitutional changes without public transparency or proper debate.

PTI delegation holds further talks with Fazlur Rehman

Meanwhile, a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) delegation has once again visited Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s residence to continue discussions on the proposed constitutional amendments..

Both sides engaged in detailed discussions regarding the ongoing constitutional reforms. These meetings come amid increasing consultations, with other political leaders, including Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, also holding separate talks with Maulana Fazlur Rehman on the issue.

Earlier Barrister Gohar Ali Khan stated on Friday that a near consensus has been achieved with JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman regarding the 26th Constitutional Amendment. He added that a final announcement will be made following consultations with PTI founder Imran Khan.

On the other hand yesterday the PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that the that if his final attempt to convince opposition to support the highly anticipated 26th constitutional amendment fails, he will proceed with amending the Constitution using a two-thirds majority.