Karachi: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reiterated his backing for the proposed amendment to Article 243, emphasizing stronger provincial autonomy, judicial reforms and a robust local government system.
Support for Article 243
Bilawal confirmed his support for Article 243 and stated that the amendment, once Parliament approves it, will align with the country’s constitutional framework. He also assured on supporting the formation of constitutional court via Article 273 to establish a constitutional court must respect legal procedures and the government should includes other points already decided in Charter of Democracy.
No Reduction in Provincial Frnds
The PPP chairman stressed that the government must not decrease provincial funds under the National Finance Commission (NFC). Furthermore, he emphasized, “We will oppose any move in the NFC that reduces provincial allocations,” thereby underlining the party’s continued commitment to fiscal federalism.. He said that under 18th Amendment funds to provinces can be increased rather being cut.
Strengthening Local Governance
Bilawal further called for the revival and strengthening of the country’s local government system, noting that Sindh’s local government framework is the “strongest in the nation’s history.” He criticized attempts to weaken local governance and noted that any changes should involve proper consultation, unlike past approaches by the Punjab Government, particularly the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).
Judicial Reforms and Constitutional Oversight
He emphasized the importance of judicial oversight in the transfer of judges, advocating for the inclusion of the Chief Justice’s opinion through the Judicial Council. Bilawal also supported incorporating additional points from the Charter of Democracy in discussions with the Constitutional Court.
Commitment to Democracy
The PPP leader reaffirmed the party’s dedication to constitutionalism and democratic norms. He insisted that all amendments and reforms, must respect the judiciary and ensure equitable governance across provinces.
Bilawal’s statements signal PPP’s firm stance on strengthening provincial rights, empowering local governments and maintaining a balanced relationship between the legislature and judiciary.
