Govt has not contacted PPP over any constitutional amendment: Bilawal
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ISLAMABAD, May 14: PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Thursday said that the government had not contacted him or his father, President Asif Ali Zardari, regarding a constitutional amendment. His remarks came amid media reports about the government’s intention to have the 28th constitutional amendment passed by parliament. “President Zardari and I remain in contact with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, but the government has not contacted the PPP regarding any constitutional amendment,” the PPP chief said at a press conference after chairing the parliamentary party meeting at the Parliament House in Islamabad. Responding to questions, Bilawal said that without the PPP, the passage of constitutional amendments and the federal budget would not be possible. “The PPP’s role in the 26th and 27th constitutional amendments is evident to everyone. We did not allow the rights of the provinces to be reduced; instead, we expanded them. Through our amendments, Balochistan’s representation in the Senate increased,” he added. Bilawal said the people of the country were facing severe hardships due to inflation. He noted that the PPP was continuously raising these issues at both the federal and provincial levels. When the prime minister decided to provide relief to the public, the PPP welcomed the move, he said. “Through consultation, all provinces agreed to support measures aimed at reducing inflation, including relief for motorcycle users. The PPP has helped millions of farmers through the Benazir Kisan Card,” he added. Clarifying the PPP’s stance on national issues, he said the party stood with the government on every constitutional amendment and national matter. Referring to tensions with India, he said that during the war he raised his voice on international media platforms in defence of the country as a patriot. The PPP chairman added that during Iran-US tensions, the PPP fully supported the federal government. “As Pakistanis, we are united on such matters,” he added. Bilawa