ISLAMABAD: Efforts for important legislation have intensified as President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif actively engage in discussions to secure a two-thirds majority in Parliament. The focus is on increasing the retirement age and number of judges in the higher judiciary.
Sources reveal that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has invited members of the allied parties to dinner tonight, with a special invitation extended to the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI). Meanwhile, members of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) from both the National Assembly and Senate will gather at the President’s House in response to President Zardari’s invitation.
During the gatherings, the President and Prime Minister are expected to brief participants on the country’s economic situation and the proposed constitutional package, which includes amendments to extend the retirement age of judges and increase the number of judges in the superior judiciary.
According to sources, the government coalition is on the verge of achieving a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly, with just three more votes needed, especially if JUI’s support is confirmed. In the Senate, the government is optimistic about securing the required 64 votes.
It is worth noting that President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz recently held meetings with Maulana Fazlur Rehman at his residence, where the Prime Minister expressed confidence that Maulana would reject the divisive politics of opposition groups. In turn, Maulana Fazlur Rehman showed willingness to cooperate with the government, stating that regardless of whether it is Form 45 or Form 47, the current government must be worked with.
