Nawaz Sharif Expresses Displeasure Over Government’s Constitutional Amendment Strategy

Islamabad — Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif has voiced dissatisfaction with the approach adopted by his government regarding the constitutional amendment, according to sources cited by ARY News.

The former prime minister, who arrived in Islamabad from his Jati Umra residence on Sunday, returned to Lahore shortly after expressing his displeasure with his party’s handling of the situation. Sources close to the PML-N reveal that Nawaz was particularly unhappy with the strategy pursued by his brother, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and decided to distance himself from the process.

Nawaz had come to Islamabad to attend a National Assembly session but notably did not meet with key political figures, including PPP President Asif Ali Zardari and JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman, despite efforts by Shehbaz to arrange a meeting. Sources indicate that Nawaz believed the government should have consulted Fazlur Rehman before proceeding with the amendment.

The National Assembly is scheduled to discuss and present a series of significant constitutional amendments in today’s session, including an increase in seats for Balochistan in the provincial assembly. The proposed amendments are expected to impact key articles in Pakistan’s Constitution, including Articles 51, 63, 175, and 187.

Among the notable changes is the proposal to raise the number of seats in the Balochistan Assembly from 65 to 81, a move aimed at enhancing the province’s representation in legislative matters. Additionally, Article 63, which deals with the disqualification of parliament members, is set to undergo significant revisions. These include provisions addressing the voting behavior of defecting assembly members.

With over 20 clauses expected to be introduced, these amendments could reshape various aspects of Pakistan’s constitutional framework. However, the government’s handling of the process has led to internal tensions, particularly within the PML-N leadership.