Pakistan is currently embroiled in intense debate over a proposed constitutional amendment, yet only a select few at the top seem to know its details. According to journalist Imran Riaz Khan, a major aspect of the amendment involves creating a federal constitutional court, with Qazi Faiz Isa as Chief Justice, whose rulings would be beyond challenge. Many in PTI circles are praising Maulana Fazl ur Rehman as a “savior of democracy” for opposing the amendment. However, **Dawn** reports that despite recent setbacks, the deal is almost finalized. Sources from JUI-F suggest that two of Maulana Fazl’s conditions for supporting the amendment include governorship of KP and a parliamentary position for his son, Asad, in addition to a share in the federal cabinet. This raises the question: how can blocking a deal aimed at securing personal gains be considered a defense of democracy?
Meanwhile, the PPP has reportedly offered to have Asad elected as a senator from Sindh. The secretive nature of this amendment is ironic—there’s no public debate or transparency, yet it’s poised to be passed with a simple majority. If it’s so crucial for democracy, why not follow democratic norms and discuss it openly in parliament? Why rush it through quietly on a Sunday night? What about devolution of power to from provinces to cities, towns and districts ? What about provincial finance award for the municipalities ?
The role of MQM, often seen as the voice of Karachi and urban Sindh, is also intriguing. Why no seriousness from MQM ? Why MQM so passive ? Dr. Farooq Sattar, who supported the 18th Amendment in 2010, today complained that his party is being sidelined. Many hold him responsible for handing over Karachi and urban Sindh to the PPP’s rural leadership through that very amendment. It seems that, like Maulana Fazl, Dr. Sattar’s focus may be on personal gain rather than resolving constitutional issues affecting Karachi. After all, MQMPK only managed to enter parliament due to seat manipulation in the 2018 elections.
The vast majority of Muhajirs are frustrated with MQMPK’s failure to stand up for them, instead acting as a rubber stamp for the establishment. MQMPK has lost its legitimacy, yet there’s no viable alternative to replace them or MQM London. How long this political vacuum will last is uncertain, but patience in Karachi is wearing thin. If things don’t change, the city could see a repeat of the violence from 1986—or worse.
Nadeem Rizvi