The 18th Amendment has unfortunately become a sensitive topic in policy discussions due to a lack of engagement from political leaders in debating the divisive issues surrounding it.
Recently, there was extensive contention between the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and Pakistan People’s Party, triggered by remarks from N-League leaders that the PPP interpreted as hinting at a new conspiracy to undo the amendment. Criticism of the 18th Amendment has increased as the federal resource allocation has diminished, primarily from ‘security’ circles and parties aligning with them.
With the PML-N gaining prominence, comments from its leaders on the 18th Amendment stirred tensions in the PPP, which staunchly defends it as a key legislative achievement.
While the PML-N clarified its stance, asserting it does not intend to abolish the 18th Amendment but wishes to see it implemented in its original spirit—with further devolution of power to local government—the PPP insists this is a disguised attempt to reverse the law and revoke provincial autonomy.
Despite the PTI and PML-N’s current stance, the PPP’s robust defense of the 18th Amendment has served Pakistani democracy and other political parties. Simultaneously, discussions on how to further devolve democratic power to the grassroots level should be embraced, not resisted. The PPP should be open to hearing and debating the concerns of rival parties instead of dismissing them as mere conspiracies. Democracy thrives on an empowered citizenry, so any proposal enhancing public participation in decision-making processes should be encouraged.
Taking the lead in discussions and steering them toward a mutually acceptable direction could help the PPP gain control over the 18th Amendment debate. Ultimately, parliament should decide the amendment’s fate through consensus and debate, rather than hastily pushing through changes without fully understanding their long-term implications.
