Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has issued a strong warning against any effort to reverse the 18th Amendment or the National Finance Commission Award. He said that such attempts are “playing with fire” at a time when the country already faces deep political challenges.
PPP Chairman Defends the 18th Amendment
While addressing a public rally in Larkana, Bilawal stressed that the 18th Amendment is one of the most powerful constitutional changes since 1973. He said the amendment strengthened provincial rights and restored a balance in governance. Moreover, he noted that recent national discussions raised concerns about attempts to weaken these constitutional protections.
Concerns Ahead of NFC Meeting
Bilawal highlighted that the upcoming NFC meeting on December 4 holds great importance for provincial autonomy. He said the PPP would resist any move that reduces provincial shares or centralises financial power. According to him, undermining provincial rights would weaken the federation.
Response to the 27th Constitutional Amendment
He also discussed the recent constitutional adjustment passed with the support of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz. Bilawal said the PML-N proposed changes to Article 243 and the executive magistracy system. He emphasised that the PPP protected provincial rights during the process and refused to compromise on core principles.
Role of the Constitutional Court
Bilawal said the formation of a Constitutional Court fulfilled an important clause of the Charter of Democracy. He believes the court will address major national issues and offer quick relief to the people. Furthermore, he criticised those who aim to make the court controversial. He said the institution would prove its critics wrong through its performance.
Parliament’s Authority Must Remain Supreme
The PPP chairman reaffirmed that legislation is the sole responsibility of Parliament. He warned that his party will not accept interference by any institution in legislative matters. He repeated that the PPP will not back decisions that weaken the federation or undermine constitutional freedoms.
Pakistan’s Political Climate Requires Urgent Attention
Bilawal described the current political situation as a serious crisis. He said that political leaders must take responsibility and address these issues through dialogue and stability-focused decisions.
Praise for Pakistan Air Force After Recent Conflict
During his address, Bilawal praised the armed forces for their performance in the recent conflict with India. He said Pakistan’s Air Force downed seven Indian fighter aircraft, including three Rafale jets, along with several drones. The conflict ended after 87 hours with a ceasefire agreement. He said the Air Force made the nation proud.
Warning About External Threats
Bilawal added that the enemy is still trying to destabilise Pakistan through conspiratorial tactics and terrorism. He said all political forces must unite to protect the country.
PPP’s Commitment to Positive Politics
He concluded by saying the PPP continues to practice positive politics. He said the party works for unity, democracy, and the protection of constitutional rights.
