State Minister for Law Barrister Aqeel Malik dismisses claims that a possible 28th Constitutional Amendment would roll back the 18th Amendment, calling such claims extremely false.
The State Minister for Law, Barrister Aqeel Malik, has rejected the notion that a possible 28th Constitutional Amendment would undo the 18th Amendment, labeling such claims as extremely false. Malik made these remarks during a recent television program, where he addressed the growing debate surrounding a potential constitutional amendment. The 18th Amendment, which was passed in 2010, devolved powers to provinces on various issues, including health, women's development, social welfare, and local government.
The law minister clarified that no formal work is currently underway on any constitutional amendment, but acknowledged that broader national issues have been discussed previously. He mentioned that conversations regarding a single national curriculum, health, and the NFC Award have taken place, and that Article 140A related to local governments has also been discussed. Malik emphasized that any formal progress towards a constitutional amendment in matters of national or public interest would be a positive development.
The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has strongly objected to any proposals to make changes to the 18th Amendment, and has vowed to resist any tweaks to the amendment. PPP leader Agha Rafiullah warned against any attempt to reverse provisions of the 18th Amendment, stating that such a move could create unrest in the country. He emphasized that the PPP would not support measures leading towards its political suicide, and that any constitutional proposal should be based on a broad public consensus rather than coercion.
PTI Senator Barrister Ali Zafar the PPP and PML-N had previously engaged in sham fights, but argued that reversing the 18th Amendment would amount to political suicide for the PPP. He suggested that the parties may not be able to reach an agreement on this point. The debate surrounding the 18th Amendment is expected to continue, with various stakeholders weighing in on the potential implications of any changes to the constitution. As the discussion unfolds, it remains to be seen whether a consensus can be reached on the way forward.
The 18th Amendment has been a topic of debate for many years, with some arguing that it has led to greater provincial autonomy and others claiming that it has created inefficiencies in the system. The potential introduction of a 28th Constitutional Amendment has reignited this debate, with various parties and stakeholders presenting their views on the matter. As the country moves forward, it is essential to consider the potential implications of any changes to the constitution and to engage in a constructive dialogue on the way forward.
