Fazal ur Rehman Rejects Government’s Proposed 27th Amendment

ISLAMABAD: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazal ur Rehman strongly criticized the government over the proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment. He warned that reviving clauses removed during the 26th Amendment would disrespect the Constitution. Fazal ur Rehman said his party will firmly oppose any such attempt. He stressed that the Constitution, democracy, and Parliament should not be undermined through unilateral decisions.

Fazal ur Rehman noted that the government has not presented an official draft of the 27th Amendment. He said speculation continues due to the lack of clarity. The government is reportedly seeking a two-thirds majority, but Fazal ur Rehman cautioned that such tactics could harm democracy. He recalled that the 26th Amendment promised implementation of Islamic Ideological Council recommendations, which never happened.

He also criticized slow progress on eliminating interest-based systems and regulating seminaries. Fazal ur Rehman alleged attempts to bring religious institutions under the Ministry of Education. On provincial autonomy, he vowed to resist any move undermining the 18th Amendment. He stated that any reduction in provincial powers would be strongly opposed. He stressed that his party supports empowering provinces, not limiting their rights.

Regarding Article 243, Fazal ur Rehman said administrative changes may be considered. However, he warned that any amendment harming democracy or political balance would be rejected. He added that the current assembly is not fully representative of the people. The JUI-F aims to protect democratic principles while monitoring the government’s legislative proposals carefully.

Earlier, Fazal ur Rehman met senior opposition leaders, including Mehmood Khan Achakzai and Asad Qaiser, to discuss the political situation. After the meeting, he warned against “tampering” with the Constitution and emphasized public trust in the system. Fazal ur Rehman recalled that his party had forced the withdrawal of 34 clauses during the 26th Amendment. He confirmed the opposition will present a unified stance once the 27th Amendment draft is officially shared.

READ MORE : 27th Amendment to Reach National Assembly Next Week

The 27th Constitutional Amendment bill will be presented in the Senate on Friday for initial approval. It will then be referred to the Senate Committee for review the same day. According to sources, the committee will discuss the proposed changes on November 8 and 9. The bill is expected to be presented before the full Senate on November 10 for further debate.

The government plans to table the amendment in the National Assembly on November 14. Officials said the ruling coalition will need 224 votes to ensure the bill’s passage. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Peoples Party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) will meet tomorrow to finalize its stance on the amendment. Party leaders are reviewing key clauses and will decide their position after internal consultations.