PML-N double-minded about PPP proposals

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PML-N double-minded about PPP proposals

Experts who have reviewed the PPP’s draft warn that, if implemented in its current form, it could destabilize Pakistan’s judicial system, creating a chaotic situation

Ansar M Bhatti

ISLAMABAD: The ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) appears to be reconsidering its stance on the proposed constitutional amendments put forward by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). According to insiders, the PML-N may not fully back the amendments as originally expected.

Sources close to the development have revealed that while the PML-N is open to the idea of establishing a Constitutional Court, it differs from the PPP on the approach. The PML-N is more focused on reforming the process for appointing the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Specifically, the party prefers the selection of a judge from among the top three most senior judges of the Supreme Court. Notably, the PML-N is believed to have a favorable view of Justice Yahya Afridi.

Additionally, the PML-N perceives that the PPP’s push for these amendments may be an attempt to align itself more closely with the Establishment. The success of this package, insiders suggest, could strengthen Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s candidacy for the prime ministership.

In light of these suspicions, the PML-N is reportedly hesitant to rush the approval process. Senior PML-N leader Irfan Siddiqui hinted at this in a recent interview, suggesting there would be no harm in delaying the proposed amendments by “three or four months.”

This unexpected development indicates the potential for heated debates between the two major parties on this issue. Experts who have reviewed the PPP’s draft warn that, if implemented in its current form, it could destabilize Pakistan’s judicial system, creating a chaotic situation.