In the midst of intense political debate surrounding the proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has adopted an uncompromising stance in defense of provincial rights. PPP leader Agha Rafiullah explicitly stated that the party will not allow the powers accrued by the provinces to be ‘rolled back’ through this new amendment under any circumstances.
Appearing on Geo News’ popular program ‘Capital Talk’ alongside PML-N’s Tariq Fazal Chaudhry and PTI’s Sharam Tarakai, Agha Rafiullah reiterated his position, stressing that it is simply “not possible” for the 27th Constitutional Amendment to weaken the provinces. This assertive posture from the PPP reflects its historical commitment to safeguarding the provincial autonomy granted under the landmark 18th Constitutional Amendment.
Reassurance Amidst Political Skepticism
Attempting to soothe the anxieties expressed by the PPP, PML-N leader Tariq Fazal Chaudhry offered firm assurance that the 27th Constitutional Amendment would indeed not roll back provincial powers. He further projected that the critical constitutional change is expected to be approved within November, indicating the ruling alliance’s determination to implement the amendment swiftly.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) Sharam Tarakai issued a political caution to the PPP. He observed that if the PPP, which has previously taken significant credit for the 18th Amendment, were to backtrack on its current stance regarding the 27th Amendment, the party would suffer severe political damage. These remarks highlight the immense public and political pressure on the PPP concerning this sensitive constitutional matter.
The ongoing discourse clearly indicates the profound sensitivity of Pakistan’s major political forces regarding the constitutional equilibrium of power distribution between the Federation and the provinces.
