Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the collaborative effort involved in the amendment’s passage, crediting all coalition parties for their commitment to public service
By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD: In a significant political development, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari hailed the passage of the 26th Constitutional Amendment as a historic achievement during a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday. Bilawal was accompanied by former Prime Minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf and Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider, while the meeting also included Prime Minister’s advisor Rana Sanaullah and National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq.
During their discussions, Bilawal underscored the importance of collaboration among political factions to strengthen democracy and parliament in Pakistan. He asserted that the 26th Constitutional Amendment would serve as a critical tool in curbing undemocratic forces within the political landscape. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the collaborative effort involved in the amendment’s passage, crediting all coalition parties for their commitment to public service. He noted a positive trend in economic indicators, suggesting a notable decrease in inflation as a result of these collective efforts.
The passage of the 26th Constitutional Amendment through both the National Assembly and Senate just days prior marked a pivotal moment, despite some reservations expressed by opposition parties, including Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI). Earlier this week, President Asif Ali Zardari officially approved the amendment, with a gazette notification confirming its enactment as law. The amendment received a two-thirds majority in both houses, solidifying its status within Pakistan’s constitutional framework.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had previously advised President Zardari to ratify the amendment into law, following its successful passage through parliament. He lauded the unanimous approval of the amendment as a “shining example of national consensus,” declaring it a “great day” for the country. The prime minister emphasized that the amendment fulfills the incomplete vision outlined in the Charter of Democracy initiated by former leaders Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif, signifying an end to the practice of dismissing elected prime ministers.
Shehbaz Sharif commended Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for his earnest efforts in realizing the amendment and acknowledged Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s contributions towards advancing Pakistan’s interests. The prime minister asserted that the approval of this amendment sends a powerful message that political parties are prioritizing the nation’s future over personal agendas.
In conclusion, he stated that these constitutional changes would pave the way for enhanced access to justice, securing a more stable future for Pakistan. The 26th Constitutional Amendment thus stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit among Pakistan’s political entities and their commitment to democratic principles.
