POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Bilawal: 26th Amendment Passed in Compromised Form, PECA Law Amended

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari says the 26th Amendment was passed in a compromised form, and the PPP played a key role in amending the PECA law to prevent harsh penalties.
2025-02-26
Bilawal: 26th Amendment Passed in Compromised Form, PECA Law Amended

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has stated that the 26th Constitutional Amendment was passed in a compromised form, and that the PPP made significant changes to the controversial Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) law.

Speaking at Oxford University, Bilawal emphasized that the original PECA law was far more restrictive, with provisions that could have imposed a 30-year sentence for a social media post. He clarified that PPP remained engaged in the process and ensured amendments to prevent such extreme measures.

PPP’s Role in 26th Amendment & PECA

Bilawal defended the passage of the 26th Amendment, stating that PPP did not weaken democracy in doing so. He acknowledged that democracy in Pakistan remains unstable, but argued that Pakistan is not alone in facing such challenges.

“The PPP has played a very positive role in shaping the 26th Constitutional Amendment. It was not passed in its original form but in a compromised form,” Bilawal said.

Political Reactions & Implications

His comments come at a time when PECA remains a controversial law, with critics arguing that it curtails freedom of expression. The PPP’s role in modifying the law may be seen as an attempt to balance government control with civil liberties.

Meanwhile, the passage of the 26th Amendment has also sparked debate, with opposition voices questioning whether the compromises were justified. As Pakistan navigates ongoing political instability, Bilawal’s remarks highlight PPP’s efforts to shape legislative changes while addressing concerns over democracy and free speech.