ANP balks at supporting partner

The 22nd amendment bill was placed before the Senate today. One of the primary clause in the introduced legislation is the removal of the bar on dual nationality in Pakistan’s parliament. The government’s coalition partner, the Awami National Party (ANP) has refused to put their weight behind the bill. Pakistan Peoples Party stalwarts, Senator Raza Rabbani and Aitzaz Ahsan are reportedly hesitant in supporting the proposed amendment. Ex-chairman of the Senate, Farroq H. Naek presented the 22nd amendment bill. Naek said that Pakistan had agreements with 16 countries over dual nationality, and therefore citizens of such countries should be allowed to contest elections. The law minister said that Article 63(1)(c) of the constitution was unfair to Pakistanis residing in foreign countries. Members of ANP in the Senate questioned the motives of the proposed legislation, while clearly stating that the party will oppose such an amendment. The bill has been submitted before the relevant standing committee for deliberation. Naek stated that those members opposing the bill would have the opportunity to voice their concerns. While dual nationals have the right to vote in general elections, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has disqualified members of parliament as the court found them to be in direct violation of Article 63.