Senator Irfan Siddiqui of the ruling PML-N announced on Monday that the contentious ‘Constitutional Package’ will not be presented in the National Assembly or Senate today.
The package includes proposed constitutional amendments, such as setting the tenure of the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) to three years. It was initially expected to be introduced in both houses of Parliament today, following intense efforts by the ruling coalition over the weekend to gather support.
In a statement to reporters, Siddiqui explained that the decision to delay was made in consultation with Maulana Fazlur Rehman. The sessions of both houses were to be “prorogued” and will reconvene when the government is fully prepared to present the amendment. Siddiqui suggested that the legislation could be tabled within a week or two, although it was hoped it would be introduced sooner.
Siddiqui described Fazl’s response to the discussions as “very positive,” noting that Fazl did not have significant objections but requested additional time to review the package. The PML-N senator praised Fazl’s flexibility and rational approach.
While the Senate session scheduled for 12:30 pm was eventually prorogued, and the National Assembly session started around 1 pm, both sessions will be rescheduled. The proposed constitutional amendment needs approval from the federal cabinet before it can be introduced.
The package, which had been kept out of public view, was discussed in a special parliamentary committee meeting to gain opposition support. The PTI, which criticized the lack of a draft presentation, is working to prevent the introduction of the package.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif argued that the legislation aims to correct constitutional imbalances and undo the 19th Amendment, asserting that the process is not politically motivated but is intended to empower Parliament.
PTI’s Asad Qaiser indicated that his party is considering boycotting parliamentary sessions and challenging the proposed amendment in court.
Political activity over the weekend was intense, with significant efforts by both the government and opposition to win support. Fazl’s demands reportedly included positions for his son and other benefits, with various parties offering incentives to gain his support.
The government is focused on securing the necessary votes in both the National Assembly and Senate, but the delay in introducing the amendment reflects ongoing negotiations and the need for additional support.
