Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari stated that only Parliament has the authority to reverse the 26th Constitutional Amendment. He emphasized that if any institution other than Parliament attempts to annul the amendment, it will not be accepted.
In a media interaction in Islamabad, Bilawal clarified that the PPP is not joining the cabinet. When asked whether Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would complete his five-year term, Bilawal responded with “Insha Allah,” before moving on to the next question.
Bilawal also discussed Pakistan’s foreign policy, highlighting that every country has its own geopolitical interests. He reaffirmed that Pakistan’s nuclear assets and missile technology are a gift from Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and a legacy from Benazir Bhutto. He stressed that the PPP would never compromise on these assets or the nuclear program.
Regarding the judiciary, Bilawal stated that when a new judge is appointed to the Supreme Court, it is essential for other judges to facilitate, not complicate, the process.
He reiterated his stance on the 26th Constitutional Amendment, emphasizing that only Parliament has the power to roll it back. He made it clear that if any institution attempts to reverse the amendment, neither the PPP nor the people will accept it.
The matter of the 26th Amendment is currently under review by the Supreme Court, which scheduled hearings for January 27, 2025. An eight-member bench, led by Justice Ameen-ud-Din Khan, will hear the case.
The amendment, which has sparked controversy, includes significant changes to the process of judicial appointments, particularly in selecting the Chief Justice of Pakistan. The PPP has also expressed concerns over the constitutional changes, which have led to petitions in both the Supreme Court and Sindh High Court seeking to have the amendment declared unconstitutional.
