Fazl, Achakzai raise concerns about 27th Constitutional Amendment
Senior political leaders have voiced serious concerns over a proposed constitutional amendment, warning that it could undermine public trust in the country’s legal framework.
In an informal conversation following a meeting between JUI chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai, the leaders emphasized the need to treat the constitution with respect, rather than as a “toy.” Maulana Fazlur Rehman noted that the second amendment had been introduced under careful supervision last year, but cautioned that current developments could repeat past mistakes.
“When amendments are made under coercion, what trust will the people have?” Maulana Fazlur Rehman remarked. “If this situation continues, what faith will the public have in the constitution?”
The opposition leaders recalled that in the past, they had successfully pressured the government to withdraw proposals affecting thirty-four constitutional articles. Now, similar concerns are emerging regarding the proposed twenty-seventh amendment. Mahmood Khan Achakzai highlighted that the draft has not yet been shared, and that the opposition plans to develop a unified response once it is received.
“The moderate atmosphere is being led towards extremism,” Maulana Fazlur Rehman warned. He suggested that the amendment appears to have been influenced by external sources, rather than arising from domestic consensus.
The discussion also touched on broader regional issues. Maulana Fazlur Rehman stressed that Pakistan should pursue a pro-Pakistan stance regarding Afghanistan, noting that any terrorism within Pakistan is an internal matter.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who was mentioned during the discussion, has been closely associated with previous constitutional amendments. Observers note that the current political discourse reflects a cautious approach by opposition leaders, seeking to safeguard democratic norms while engaging with the government on contentious reforms.