PTI boycotts constitutional amendment process; JUI-F likely to vote

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced its decision to boycott the constitutional amendment process in both the National Assembly and Senate.

Following a special meeting of its political committee, PTI made clear its refusal to participate in the dialogue regarding the proposed amendments, a stance that signals rising tensions within the political landscape.

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PTI has also decided to take action against its members who have violated PTI’s policy, emphasising the need for strict adherence to party principles. PTI leader Sheikh Waqas Akram communicated the party’s intention to boycott the proceedings through a post on X, formerly Twitter.

Criticising the process, PTI asserted that it does not believe in dialogue and democratic engagement under the current circumstances. However, PTI signalled its willingness to consider proposals if presented by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman.

JUI-F ADVOCATES PARTICIPATING IN VOTING PROCESS

Speaking on the issue, JUI-F Senator Kamran Murtaza added a note of urgency, warning that if PTI does not participate in the voting, the government will push through its own bill, which could have far-reaching consequences.

He emphasised that such unilateral action could reshape the political and legislative landscape in unforeseen ways.

PML-N CRITICISES PTI FOR NOT FOLLOWING DEMOCRATIC PROCESS

Meanwhile, Pakistan Muslim League- Nawaz (PML-N) leader Rana Sanaullah confirmed that the federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is continuing discussions and will approve the draft constitutional amendment.

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He said, “PTI does not believe in dialogue and democratic process,” adding that if a consensus is reached, it is desired that Maulana Fazl Rehman should present the draft. He added that a final response has been received from Maulana Fazl, and the federal cabinet is expected to push the amendment forward regardless of PTI’s boycott.

In parallel, a PTI delegation is scheduled to meet the JUI-F Chief to discuss the matter further.