No more constitutional changes; implement South Punjab resolution: Bilawal

LAHORE: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that no further amendments to the constitution are needed, added that two amendments passed by a single parliament are sufficient.

Addressing a press conference at the Governor House in Lahore on Tuesday, Bilawal said that the Constitution should not be altered repeatedly. He called for stability and consistency in the country’s foundational legal framework.

On the issue of provincial governance, Bilawal noted that his party would not seek ministries in Punjab but reiterated the importance of providing space to allies in the region. He suggested that the merit of the PPP lies in its commitment to democracy, and that the governor’s rule should be applied if necessary.

Regarding the creation of new provinces, Bilawal stressed that the first priority should be following the resolution passed by the Punjab Assembly regarding South Punjab. He referred to a previous Senate commission that endorsed the creation of South Punjab as a separate province and said that the focus should be on implementing that consensus before considering any further divisions.

When asked about the possibility of dividing Punjab, Bilawal said that the resolution passed by the Punjab Assembly should be respected, adding that he had no personal desire to divide the province. Turning to local governance, Bilawal criticised the recent changes in Punjab’s local government system, suggesting that if similar actions had been taken in Sindh, there would have been significant backlash. He added that the PPP’s approach in Sindh is always democratic and inclusive.

Bilawal’s comments on reconciliation in politics were also notable. He highlighted the importance of dialogue and cooperation, particularly when asked about the possibility of banning the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Acknowledging the tensions between political parties, he pointed out that, while he has no personal animosity toward Imran Khan, the former prime minister’s political methods are flawed. He stressed that creating an environment of constructive dialogue is essential for Pakistan’s political stability.

Bilawal also praised the efforts of Punjab’s current governor, Sardar Saleem Haider, and the Punjab Chief Minister for their work in the province. Despite the challenges facing the region, he acknowledged their hard work and commitment to governance.