Islamabad, August 5, 2025: The federal government on Tuesday extended an invitation to the opposition parties to engage in dialogue over the 26th Constitutional Amendment, aiming to build consensus and consider improvements to the legislation.
Addressing the National Assembly, Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar defended the amendment, saying it aimed to restore the dignity of Parliament and bring transparency and structure to the judicial appointment process — a practice he noted is followed internationally. He emphasized that the amendment had helped reduce the number of pending court cases.
Tarar recalled the political turmoil of April 2022, referencing the swift rejection of a no-confidence motion under Article 95. “We watched from the visitors’ gallery as the motion was dismissed in 90 seconds and the assembly was dissolved. It took the Supreme Court to restore the assembly,” he said.
He also questioned the motives behind the premature dissolution of the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assemblies, implicitly criticizing the opposition for disrupting democratic continuity.
“You talk of dialogue, but have you ever truly encouraged it?” Tarar asked, urging opposition leaders to engage constructively. “Come, sit with us, and tell us how to improve this amendment. We were ready yesterday, and we are ready today. Shouting and tearing papers won’t help — only dialogue will.”
Highlighting ongoing legal reforms, he revealed that a draft bill proposing 108 amendments to the Criminal Code is pending in committee. He urged all parties to come together and “think about the betterment of the country.”
Tarar also said the 26th Amendment had strengthened the parliamentary committee on judicial appointments, ensuring parliamentary oversight in the selection of judges — a step toward institutional balance and transparency.
Separately, Speaker Ayaz Sadiq took notice of the prolonged absence of PTI MNA Sheikh Waqas Akram, who has reportedly missed 40 consecutive days of National Assembly sessions without explanation.
Citing Article 64 of the Constitution, which allows for disqualification of members for unexplained prolonged absences, a motion for his removal was submitted. The Deputy Speaker assured the House that the matter would be reviewed in accordance with parliamentary rules.
