In the midst of uncertainty surrounding potential constitutional amendments, the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) has stated that any changes to the Constitution cannot proceed without the involvement of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
While giving an interview to a private news channel, JUI-F Senator Kamran Murtaza emphasized that the Constitution cannot be deemed a consensus document if the PTI is excluded from the discussions.
His remarks come as the current government seeks to garner support from the JUI-F to secure enough votes in parliament for a proposed constitutional package. This package includes a three-year fixed term for the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) and the establishment of a constitutional court. JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman indicated that a consensus with the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) is within reach.
Speaking to reporters, Fazl expressed concerns that the government's draft could undermine judicial independence and public interest, stating, "It is our responsibility to create a balance among all institutions." He noted plans to meet with Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to discuss the matter further.
The JUI-F has also proposed its own draft—the Constitution (26th Amendment) Bill, 2024—which suggests the creation of constitutional benches within the Supreme Court and high courts, rather than a separate constitutional court as advocated by the PPP. Senator Murtaza explained that the JUI-F's proposal includes forming these benches for a five-year term, subject to future review.
In a related note, Murtaza mentioned that outgoing CJP Qazi Faez Isa has made travel arrangements for Istanbul and Umrah, suggesting he is mentally prepared for retirement on October 25. Meanwhile, a meeting between the PTI and JUI-F is scheduled for October 17 to further discuss the draft amendments.