Pakistan’s PPP rejects 28th constitutional amendment rumors, demands NAB abolition

Pakistan's Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has rejected speculation about a 28th constitutional amendment that would roll back provincial revenue-sharing and recentralize education policy. PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said no formal or informal discussions have taken place with his party on the matter. He also warned the government to honor earlier commitments, or risk losing PPP support for previously passed legislation.

What is the PPP's position on the 28th constitutional amendment?

The PPP has received no proposals from the government and says no discussions have taken place, formally or informally. Bilawal said timing is also a constraint, as the budget process begins next month. The party has drawn clear lines against any amendment that reduces provincial autonomy or alters the National Finance Commission award.

Why is the PPP demanding NAB abolition?

The PPP's conditions go beyond the amendment itself. Bilawal said the party has long proposed abolishing the National Accountability Bureau through a separate amendment, arguing the institution was built for political victimization rather than genuine accountability. He repeated his position that economic stability and an aggressive NAB cannot coexist.

"The National Accountability Bureau was fashioned as a vengeful institution," Bilawal told journalists at Parliament House on Thursday. "I have not changed my thinking that the economy and NAB cannot run together." He said the party supported the 26th and 27th amendments, as well as the NAB amendment, because the government agreed to certain commitments at the time.

Could the PPP withdraw support for previous constitutional amendments?

Bilawal issued a direct warning: if the government fails to deliver on those commitments, the PPP will reconsider its support. He did not specify which commitments he was referring to, but the remarks signal growing tension between the PPP and the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-N within the coalition.

What are the PPP's red lines on provincial rights?

The PPP has been explicit that it will not accept any amendment that unwinds the gains provinces made under the 18th Amendment, including NFC awards. "Once you grant rights, you cannot take them back," Bilawal said. He added that the party passed the 26th and 27th amendments specifically on the assurance that provincial rights would not be reversed.

Is the PPP open to future talks on the 28th amendment?

Despite rejecting current rumors, Bilawal said the party is not closing the door entirely. The PPP would consult internally and is willing to hear any proposals the government brings forward. "We will consult within the party, and if anyone comes to us with proposals or requests, we are ready to listen to them as well," he said.