Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has launched a scathing critique of the current state of the judiciary and the opposition’s political tactics.
Speaking to Geo News and addressing lawyers in Quetta, Bhutto Zardari alleged that the process of appointing judges is controlled by individuals who are politically divided and unable to cooperate.
He accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of pursuing a politics of opposition for opposition’s sake, aiming to destabilize the country. “Their goal is to see Pakistan fail,” Bhutto Zardari stated, claiming that PTI’s actions are designed to create enough chaos to benefit them politically.
He further asserted that the attacks on Justice Faiz Isa are not recent, and that the PTI consistently seeks to create controversy around key positions.
Regarding proposed constitutional amendments, Bhutto Zardari explained that while there was an initial understanding of support from Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman, significant differences emerged during committee deliberations.
He defended the government’s urgency in pursuing these amendments, stating that those criticizing the speed should explain when, if not now, these crucial changes should be implemented. He dismissed accusations of haste, arguing that the opposition is attempting to sabotage the process.
Bhutto Zardari confirmed that the amendments will be presented to parliament as soon as a two-thirds majority is secured, emphasizing the importance of swift action. He also revealed ongoing communication with Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman, despite the latter’s interactions with the PTI. He indicated he would not prevent members of the PTI from engaging with PPP members on the committee tasked with reviewing the amendments.
In his address to lawyers in Quetta, Bhutto Zardari advocated for a reformed judicial system. He stressed the need for equitable representation of provinces in the constitutional court and called for addressing historical weaknesses within the Pakistani judicial system. He proposed establishing provincial-level constitutional courts to ensure timely justice at the local level and reforming the process of judicial appointments.
Bhutto Zardari proposed a parliamentary committee, comprising both government and opposition members, to oversee judicial appointments, ensuring that candidates receive sufficient support. He argued that the current system, where appointments are made under pressure, is inadequate and must be reformed.
