Hafiz Naeemur Rehman criticized statements from political leaders proposing that PIA be run by provincial governments, calling it “a mockery of national assets
Ishrat Jahan
KARACHI: Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Pakistan Ameer, Engr Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, criticized the 26th Amendment to Pakistan’s Constitution, asserting that it threatens the foundational structure of the 1973 Constitution, which was established through a two-thirds majority across all political segments. Addressing a press conference at Idara Noor-e-Haq, the JI headquarters in Karachi, Rehman contended that the amendment grants excessive government control over the judiciary.
Flanked by JI Karachi Ameer Monem Zafar and senior party figures, including Saifuddin Advocate, Muslim Pervez, and Raja Arif Sultan, Rehman described the amendment as a “judicial ambush.” He argued that by altering the appointment process for judges, the government is attempting to manipulate judicial seniority—a matter he stressed had long been resolved. “This amendment is not merely a change in procedure; it’s an overt attempt to dominate the judiciary, politicize its workings, and shift its loyalties towards the government,” Rehman stated, describing the amendment as an assault on constitutional integrity, judicial independence, and democratic freedoms.
Hafiz Naeem noted that initial bids for PIA dwindled to a single offer of PKR 10 billion, a fraction of the national carrier’s estimated value. He criticized statements from political leaders proposing that PIA be run by provincial governments, calling it “a mockery of national assets.” “Even amid its struggles, PIA’s asset value is around PKR 152 billion, royalties stand at PKR 202 billion, and receivables range from PKR 16 to 17 billion, with a workforce comprising 7,100 permanent employees and 2,400 daily wagers. A bid of PKR 10 billion is an insult to the nation,” he declared. Rehman held successive governments, including the PPP, PML-N, and PTI, accountable for the erosion of national institutions.
