The federal government has extended an invitation to the opposition for formal dialogue aimed at improving the 26th Constitutional Amendment, with Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar emphasizing that political shouting matches cannot resolve complex constitutional matters.
Addressing the National Assembly on Tuesday, Tarar recounted the events of April 2022 when a no-confidence motion under Article 95 of the Constitution was dismissed in under two minutes, resulting in the premature dissolution of the assembly. The Supreme Court later intervened to restore the legislative body.
The law minister questioned the rationale behind the early dissolution of the provincial assemblies in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, pointing out the inconsistency in the opposition’s stance on democratic processes. “You demand dialogue, but have you made any serious effort to engage in it?” he asked.
Defending the controversial 26th Amendment, Tarar explained that the legislation aimed to protect parliamentary dignity and prevent what he described as judicial overreach. “The amendment outlines a clear and transparent process for appointing judges — a practice followed internationally,” he said. He added that since the amendment’s enactment, the number of pending cases in the courts has declined, attributing this to greater procedural clarity.
Renewing the government’s offer for dialogue, Tarar said, “Let’s sit together and improve this legislation. We were open to talks yesterday and we remain open today. Shouting and tearing documents will not move the country forward. Only meaningful discussion can lead to solutions.”
The law minister also highlighted that the amendment has empowered the parliamentary committee responsible for judicial appointments. He pointed out that a comprehensive draft proposing 108 changes to the Criminal Code is currently pending in the committee. “This draft is an opportunity to improve the justice system, let us work on it collectively,” he urged.
In a related development during the session, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq raised concerns over PTI member Sheikh Waqas Akram’s continued absence from parliamentary proceedings. The lawmaker has reportedly missed 40 consecutive days without explanation.
Citing Article 64 of the Constitution, which allows for the termination of a legislator’s membership due to prolonged unexplained absences, the Speaker noted that a motion for his removal had been submitted. The Deputy Speaker assured the House that the matter would be reviewed according to parliamentary rules.
The developments signal a renewed effort by the government to engage the opposition on critical legislative reforms, while also upholding accountability within the legislative framework.
