Political Tension & Economic Struggles Threaten Shehbaz Govt’s Stability

New Delhi: Recent developments in Pakistan suggest that the Shehbaz Sharif government could be in trouble.

A recent crackdown on Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party leaders and the subsequent standoff between the Pakistan government and PTI supporters point to a growing tension that could destabilise political equations, a Zee News report said.

Reports further suggest that the Shehbaz government is planning drastic constitutional changes. While the government’s plans are still shrouded in secrecy, sources claim that the government plans to extend the retirement age of judges and set a fixed tenure for the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.

Recently, a government delegation that included Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and Azam Nazir Tarar met prominent religious scholars and right-wing political leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman. Given the government’s lack of a two-thirds majority in Parliament,  Rehman’s support is crucial for the passage of any bill. His party, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F), holds significant sway with its eight members in the National Assembly (Parliament) and five senators.

The Shebaz government aims to establish a constitutional court through a constitutional amendment and also wants to amend Article 63-A of the constitution, which pertains to the defection of Parliament members.

Meanwhile, the economic condition in Pakistan continues to deteriorate, leading to growing public dissatisfaction. High inflation and unemployment have made basic necessities unaffordable for many. Karachi resident Ashraf Khan criticized the government, stating that despite claims of reduced inflation, people’s incomes are shrinking due to fewer job opportunities, an ANI report said.