Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has opted to boycott the voting process for the 26th constitutional amendment, citing concerns over its transparency. Both houses of Parliament are scheduled to convene today (Sunday) for the critical vote.
In a Facebook post released early in the morning, PTI’s Political Committee declared a complete boycott of the voting procedure in both the National Assembly and the Senate.
This decision follows ongoing legislative gridlock caused by a proposed judicial reform bill. Despite this, the Senate managed to pass an amendment to the Banking Companies Act late Saturday, aimed at enhancing the legal framework for Islamic banking in the country.
Following multiple adjournments, the 26th constitutional amendment bill is expected to be tabled today.
A screenshot of PTI’s Facebook post was shared, announcing their decision. The National Assembly session is scheduled for 6pm, with the Senate convening earlier at 3pm. Simultaneously, the federal cabinet will also meet at 3pm to discuss and approve the amendment.
Law Minister Attaullah Tarar stated that cabinet members would finalize their stance on the legislation by 2:30pm.
PTI’s political committee expressed its “strong opposition” to any party member who defies the decision and participates in the vote. The committee also resolved that PTI workers would hold peaceful protests outside the homes of any members who choose to take part in the voting, to publicly demonstrate their disapproval.
The committee stressed the importance of party unity and discipline in adhering to these decisions.
Meanwhile, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman is expected to respond today to Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s request for support in passing the amendment.
Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) chief Mahmood Khan Achakzai also weighed in, stating that former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s release is essential to resolving the country’s current political crisis.
Law Minister Tarar further noted that consultations on the constitutional amendment have been ongoing for the last four weeks. He revealed that several key features of the draft, previously approved by a special parliamentary committee, would be modified, with cabinet approval sought for these changes.
In a bid to foster political consensus, Tarar hinted that the amendment bill might be introduced by a political party. He also shared that timelines had been set for establishing constitutional benches, assessing judges’ performance, and improving transparency in the judicial accountability process.
Tarar added that provisions to establish “two secretariats” were included in the amendment.
Furthermore, the law minister highlighted the need for the Registrar’s Office to streamline data recording processes. He pointed out that the current system lacks a dedicated mechanism for managing references under Article 209, which deals with judicial accountability. This responsibility is currently handled by Supreme Court staff, contributing to delays in case resolution.
