LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PPP Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari met in Lahore to discuss significant political matters, including local government reforms. Leaders from both parties attended the meeting, which focused on the 26th Amendment and the potential introduction of the 27th Amendment to address gaps in previous legislation.

Although no official statements were released, a brief press release from the PM Office indicated that the country’s political situation was a primary topic of discussion. PM Shehbaz emphasized the importance of PPP as a government ally, praising their support for economic stability measures. The PPP delegation expressed confidence in the government’s economic policies.

Media reports suggested that Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari highlighted the need for collaboration to strengthen parliament and democracy, noting that the recent amendment would help curb undemocratic forces. PM Shehbaz thanked coalition parties for their support in passing the amendment with a two-thirds majority, citing positive economic indicators and reduced inflation.

During a subsequent appearance, Bhutto-Zardari deflected questions about the meeting, mentioning his visit to Lahore for a polo match. However, sources revealed that the 27th Amendment, which aims to empower local bodies and address other concerns, was discussed at PM Shehbaz’s Model Town residence.

The MQM-P’s demand for local government empowerment, a condition for their support of the 26th Amendment, was a key topic. Attendees included ex-PM Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider, Syed Naveed Qamar, Barrister Murtaza Wahab, Rana Sanaullah, and Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar.

PPP Punjab leader Barrister Amir Hasan mentioned that provincial affairs and other matters were discussed, emphasizing the need for joint efforts on various fronts, including the Charter of Democracy, NAB law amendments, judicial reforms, and protecting parliament and politicians from baseless defamation.

Later, PML-N stalwart Rana Sanaullah stated that the special parliamentary committee responsible for the 26th Amendment would continue its work. He denied any preliminary work on the 27th Amendment, stressing that the focus remains on the 26th Amendment, with future amendments to be tabled after consensus. He also mentioned that constitutional benches proposed under the 26th Amendment should exclude controversial judges, suggesting that Chief Justice Yahya Afridi should not head these benches.