KARACHI: The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has rejected most clauses of the federal government’s proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment, saying it will not support any change to the NFC Award or rollback of provincial autonomy.
Addressing a joint press conference alongside Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani and other senior leaders, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said his party “rejects any attempt to alter the NFC formula” and stands firm on safeguarding provincial rights.
The PPP Central Executive Committee (CEC), chaired by President Asif Ali Zardari and Bilawal, met in Karachi to discuss the proposed constitutional changes, which include the establishment of a Constitutional Court, amendments to Article 243 regarding the armed forces’ command, and provisions for executive magistrates and judicial transfers.
Bilawal confirmed that the CEC approved the amendment to Article 243 but rejected all other proposed changes, especially those affecting the NFC and provincial shares. He added that the final decision on the Constitutional Court would be made in the next CEC session after Friday prayers.
He revealed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had personally sought the PPP’s support for the amendment, but the party declined to back clauses undermining the 18th Amendment or provincial rights.
PPP leader Shazia Marri also reaffirmed that the party “will not support any move that rolls back the powers given to provinces” under the 18th Amendment. She said PPP could support reforms that improve governance, enhance institutional performance, or provide public relief—but not at the cost of provincial autonomy.
The ruling coalition, led by the PML-N, currently has 237 members in the National Assembly, enough to pass the amendment if united, but still needs additional votes in the Senate where 64 are required. Sources said the government may seek support from JUI-F or ANP senators to reach the two-thirds majority threshold.
