During a late-night meeting at the Sharif family’s Jati Umra residence on Wednesday, key political figures—including the Sharif brothers, President Asif Ali Zardari, and JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman—reached a consensus on judicial reforms.
The meeting, held over a dinner hosted by PML-N President Nawaz Sharif, was attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, and JUI-F’s Maulana Asad Mahmood.
Following discussions on the constitutional package, Fazl, Bilawal, and Dar briefed the media. Fazl confirmed that consensus had been achieved on judicial reforms, with further consultations planned for additional proposals. He also stated his intention to meet with PTI leaders in Islamabad to incorporate their input.
Fazl reiterated JUI-F’s rejection of the initial amendment but emphasized that thorough discussions are essential to safeguard both the nation and the Constitution. Bilawal expressed gratitude for Fazl’s efforts, noting that the PPP, JUI-F, and other parties were united in their commitment to upholding constitutional supremacy and ensuring swift justice.
Dar also confirmed the consensus on judicial reforms, indicating that agreement on other amendments was expected soon. The PPP and JUI-F had finalized a draft for the 26th constitutional amendment the previous day.
The constitutional package proposes the establishment of a federal constitutional court and a three-year tenure for the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP). Previously, the coalition government’s attempt to introduce the package stalled amid speculations of an extension for CJP Qazi Faez Isa’s tenure.
To pass the amendments, a two-thirds majority in parliament is required, but the government currently falls short by 13 votes in the National Assembly and nine in the Senate.
In a bid to advance the amendments, separate sessions of the National Assembly and the Senate were called for October 17. President Zardari summoned the National Assembly session for 4 p.m. and the Senate session for 3 p.m. the same day, as the ruling coalition intensifies efforts to secure support for the controversial constitutional package. The coalition has been holding frequent meetings to debate the proposed 26th amendment, with PPP MNA Syed Khursheed Shah leading the special parliamentary committee.
