ISLAMABAD: Two separate delegations, one led by Pakistan People’s Party and the other by the federal government convened in Islamabad to hold discussions with Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the leader of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazal (JUI-F).
The first delegation was headed by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the Chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP). It also included other prominent leaders such as Ejaz Jakhrani and Karachi’s Mayor Murtaza Wahab.
In the late hours, Bilawal Bhutto arrived at Rehman’s residence, where he was joined by Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi for further talks. The JUI-F representatives present included Aslam Ghori, Kamran Murtaza, and Usman Badini.
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After the meeting, JUI-F leader Kamran Murtaza revealed that the government had put forth several proposals regarding constitutional changes, noting that additional discussions with party officials would be essential. He stressed the necessity of involving all political factions, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in the dialogue concerning the proposed amendments.
The government is seeking a two-thirds majority in parliament to enact the proposed constitutional changes, making the backing of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam vital.
Before Bilawal Bhutto’s visit, another government team led by Federal Law Minister Nazir Tarar, which also included Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, had met with Rehman. Subsequently, a PTI group consisting of Barrister Gohar, Asad Qaiser, Umar Ayub, Shibli Faraz, and Sahibzada Hamid Raza attempted to engage with Rehman but departed due to the ongoing discussions with the government officials.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, along with his legal advisors, visited Rehman’s residence late last night, as well.
Sources indicate that the PM briefed Rehman on the proposed constitutional changes, to which Rehman responded that the JUI-F would consider the draft only upon its receipt.
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif criticised the PTI’s contradictory approach, stating that while they seek to maintain communication through Ali Amin, they simultaneously convey a different message via social media.
Speaking in the National Assembly, Asif remarked on the inconsistency of the PTI’s stance, questioning whether there is a way back from their current path.
Asif further stated that the PTI is responsible for creating a challenging political environment, asserting that the committee’s role is no longer justified under these circumstances.
He also ridiculed opposition leader omar Ayub’s comments, referencing historical figures and suggesting that the opposition’s enthusiasm mirrored that of their party affiliations.