Both leaders discussed national political climate after 26th amendment; allies also mulled 27th amendment seeking more powers for the military courts; anomalies in the 26th amendment to be removed thru 27th amendment
Special Correspondent
LAHORE: PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has described the passage of the 26th Constitutional Amendment as historic during a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari was accompanied by former Prime Minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf and Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider while Prime Minister’s advisor Rana Sanaullah and National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq were also reported to have attended the meeting.
During the meeting, Bilawal emphasised the need to work together for the strengthening of democracy and parliament, stating that the 26th Constitutional Amendment will be effective in curbing undemocratic forces.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif credited the approval of the 26th Amendment to all coalition parties, reaffirming their commitment to public service. He noted that positive economic indicators are leading to a noticeable decrease in inflation.
It is important to note that just a few days ago, the government secured the passage of the 26th Constitutional Amendment in both the National Assembly and Senate, although opposition parties, including Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), expressed reservations regarding the amendment.
Earlier this week, President Asif Ali Zardari, has officially approved the 26th constitutional amendment, with the gazette notification issued shortly after.
The notification, released by the National Assembly, confirms that the 26th Amendment is now an Act of Parliament and has officially become law.
The amendment, passed by both the Senate and the National Assembly with a two-thirds majority, is now in effect nationwide.
The 26th constitutional amendment has been enacted following the publication of the official gazette, cementing its place within Pakistan’s legal and constitutional framework.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had earlier sent advice on Monday to President Asif Ali Zardari about ratifying the 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill into law.
The prime minister had signed the advice on the said constitutional amendment bill after its passage by both the house of the parliament
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has praised the unanimous passage of the 26th constitutional amendment by Pakistan’s Parliament, calling it a “shining example of national consensus”.
Addressing the joint session after the Senate and National Assembly approved the amendment by a two-thirds majority, Shehbaz said it marks a “great day” in the country’s history.
He noted that the amendment fulfills the incomplete vision of the Charter of Democracy, which was initiated by former leaders Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif.
The prime minister expressed that the era of dismissing elected prime ministers is now over, and Parliament has demonstrated its strength and unity.
Shehbaz Sharif commended Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari for his sincere efforts in making the amendment a reality and thanked Maulana Fazlur Rehman for his contributions to advancing Pakistan’s best interests.
He added that the approval of the amendment sends a strong message that all political parties prioritised the nation’s future over personal interests.
The prime minister concluded by stating that these constitutional amendments will pave the way for easier access to justice and secure Pakistan’s future.
