Bilawal says no talks of 28th amendment yet as PPP eyes budget negotiations with govt

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari denies immediate discussions on 28th Constitutional Amendment, says support is crucial for govt to amend constitution and pass budget.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has denied any immediate discussions with the federal government on a potential 28th Constitutional Amendment. Speaking at the PPP's parliamentary party meeting, he no talks have taken place yet, but did not rule out the possibility of future developments. Bilawal's comments come amid speculation about potential changes to the constitution, with some calling for revisions to the 18th Amendment.

The 18th Amendment, passed during the PPP-led government in 2010, has been a topic of debate in recent years, with some arguing that it needs to be revised. However, the PPP has strongly opposed any changes to the amendment, citing its importance in securing provincial rights. Bilawal the 26th and 27th constitutional amendments had ensured the representation of all provinces in the Supreme Court and Federal Constitutional Court, thanks to the PPP's efforts. He also emphasized that his party's support is crucial for the government to amend the constitution or pass the budget.

The PPP chairman has constituted a four-member committee to negotiate with the federal government on the upcoming budget. The committee comprises MNAs Raja Pervaiz Ashraf and Naveed Qamar, and senators Saleem Mandviwala and Sherry Rehman. Bilawal warned that the budget could bring greater hardships for the public, citing the country's economic crisis and high inflation rates. He expressed concern that the inflation is heavily impacting citizens across Pakistan and welcomed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's relief measures to alleviate the suffering of the public.

Bilawal also maintained that the PPP would work with the federal government to ease economic pressure on the public. He the prime minister had requested provinces to assist the federation in curbing inflation, and expressed hope that talks between Tehran and Washington would succeed in the future. The PPP chairman's comments suggest that his party is willing to work with the government to address the country's economic challenges, but will not compromise on its principles, particularly when it comes to the constitution and provincial rights. As the budget negotiations begin, it remains to be seen how the PPP and the government will work together to address the country's economic woes.