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Khawaja Asif Defends Constitutional Amendments; Asad Qaiser Criticizes Government’s Handling
Federal Defense Minister Khawaja Asif defends the proposed constitutional amendments as necessary for correcting imbalances, while Asad Qaiser criticizes the government's lack of transparency.
ND
by News Desk
2024-09-16
Khawaja Asif Defends Constitutional Amendments; Asad Qaiser Criticizes Government’s Handling

Federal Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has robustly defended the proposed constitutional amendments, asserting that their primary goal is to address institutional imbalances and uphold the dignity of Parliament. Speaking during a delayed National Assembly session, Asif emphasized that the amendments are rooted in the Charter of Democracy and are aimed at correcting a decade-long imbalance.

 

Asif stated that the amendments are not politically motivated but are intended to alleviate the judiciary's workload and restore the balance of power among institutions. He highlighted that the draft amendments are still under discussion and will be presented to Parliament once a consensus is reached. "The amendments will come to the House once there is full agreement on the draft," Asif affirmed. He also noted that the draft's confidentiality is standard practice until it is formally introduced in Parliament.

 

In contrast, opposition leader Asad Qaiser has criticized the government’s approach, accusing it of undermining parliamentary procedures and transparency. Qaiser expressed frustration over what he described as attempts to use Parliament as a mere rubber stamp and accused the government of hiding crucial documents related to the amendments. He also expressed discontent with the handling of the legislative process, suggesting that it was done with a lack of respect for democratic norms.

 

Qaiser lamented that the government’s handling of the amendments, including attempts to fast-track the process, reflects poorly on the institution. He praised Maulana Fazlur Rehman for his stance against the perceived manipulation and lamented that key details of the amendments have not been made available to all stakeholders. He added, "The attempt to bring amendments on a holiday and through stealthy means is an affront to parliamentary integrity."

 

Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar also addressed the session, defending the legislative process and asserting that the draft amendments have not yet been approved by the federal cabinet. Tarar explained that the process involves consultations with various stakeholders, including opposition parties and coalition partners. He criticized the opposition’s claims, emphasizing that the draft amendments are still under review and have not yet been finalized.

 

Tarar also highlighted that the draft of the Criminal Code, which includes 90 amendments aimed at streamlining legal processes and reducing case backlogs, is part of the broader legislative agenda. He challenged critics to support or reject the proposed package based on its merits rather than political posturing.

 

The ongoing debate reflects the complex and contentious nature of constitutional reform in Pakistan, with differing views on the balance between institutional power and democratic accountability. The situation remains fluid as discussions continue and the legislative process moves forward.
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