Political Turbulence: PTI Lawmakers Break Ranks Ahead of Key Vote

Twelve PTI lawmakers, including two senators, lost contact with the party ahead of crucial voting on constitutional amendments. PTI plans to abstain from voting, alleging a lack of legitimacy in the current government's move. Concerns arise as two senators might defy party lines to support amendments.

In a surprising political development, twelve lawmakers from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), including two senators and ten members of the National Assembly, have reportedly severed communication with the party. This revelation comes just before a pivotal voting session on constitutional amendments. According to ARY News sources, PTI's internal communications confirm the loss of contact, with opposition leader Omar Ayub acknowledging the absence of seven members and PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar noting the disconnection with two senators.

Among the missing lawmakers are Chaudhry Ilyas, Aslam Ghuman, Riaz Fatyana, Mukhtar Hussain, Aurangzeb Kachhi, Murad Zeeshan Khan, Aniqa Mehdi, and Zain and Zahoor Qureshi. Earlier, PTI's political committee had decided to abstain from the constitutional vote in both legislative chambers, arguing that the current ruling coalition lacks the democratic legitimacy required for such amendments. The committee also signaled its intention to protest against any PTI members who partake in the voting process.

In a bold statement, PTI Chairman Gohar Khan raised concerns over reports suggesting two senators, Zarqa Taimur and Faisal Saleem, may defy party policy by supporting the amendments. Meanwhile, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar announced plans to present the constitutional package draft to the federal cabinet today. In a press briefing with Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, he confirmed the inclusion of recommendations from JUI-F Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, with further details shared at a federal cabinet meeting.

(With inputs from agencies.)