PPP Secretary General Nayyar Bokhari has said provincial autonomy must remain free from interference as political discussion continues around a possible 28th constitutional amendment.
Bokhari said there was still nothing final or “black and white” regarding the proposed package, but stressed that the powers already devolved to provinces should not be weakened.
PPP Defends the 18th Amendment
The debate is linked to concerns that a new constitutional package could affect powers and financial authority given to provinces under the 18th Amendment.
The 18th Amendment, passed in 2010 during a PPP-led government, reshaped Pakistan’s federal structure by transferring several key responsibilities from the Centre to the provinces.
Why Provincial Autonomy Matters
Supporters of the 18th Amendment argue that provincial control over public services, resources and governance helps strengthen the federation and allows provinces to respond to local needs.
Any move perceived as rolling back those powers is likely to face political resistance, especially from parties that see devolution as a core democratic principle.
No Final Amendment Package Yet
Bokhari indicated that discussions are still at an early stage and that the party has not received a finalized proposal. He said the PPP would evaluate any constitutional move carefully once details are available.
