ISLAMABAD: Two separate delegations, one led by Pakistan People’s Party and the other by the federal government convened in Islamabad to hold discussions with Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the leader of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazal (JUI-F).
The first delegation was headed by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the Chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP). It also included other prominent leaders such as Ejaz Jakhrani and Karachi’s Mayor Murtaza Wahab.
In the late hours, Bilawal Bhutto arrived at Rehman’s residence, where he was joined by Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi for further talks. The JUI-F representatives present included Aslam Ghori, Kamran Murtaza, and Usman Badini.
After the meeting, JUI-F leader Kamran Murtaza revealed that the government had put forth several proposals regarding constitutional changes, noting that additional discussions with party officials would be essential. He stressed the necessity of involving all political factions, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in the dialogue concerning the proposed amendments.
The government is seeking a two-thirds majority in parliament to enact the proposed constitutional changes, making the backing of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam vital.
Before Bilawal Bhutto’s visit, another government team led by Federal Law Minister Nazir Tarar, which also included Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, had met with Rehman. Subsequently, a PTI group consisting of Barrister Gohar, Asad Qaiser, Umar Ayub, Shibli Faraz, and Sahibzada Hamid Raza attempted to engage with Rehman but departed due to the ongoing discussions with the government officials.
