Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, in an interview, shared his perspectives on the country’s current state of democracy, recent legislative activities in parliament, and the passage of critical bills like the 26th Amendment and the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Peca) (Amendment) Bill 2025 by the coalition government.
Bilawal asserted that the People’s Party has consistently championed democracy, focusing on constitutional rights, devolution, and individual liberties. “Every piece of legislation, every political move, and our rights-based approach are all championed and safeguarded by the People’s Party,” he stated, emphasizing the party’s openness to constructive criticism to improve governance further.
Addressing concerns about the weakening of democracy in Pakistan, Bilawal acknowledged that although Pakistan’s democracy isn’t as old or robust as some other nations, it faces similar global challenges, including populism and the rise of post-fact and post-shame politics. These challenges, he noted, threaten to undermine established institutions and norms.
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Bilawal highlighted the significance of the 26th Amendment as part of the broader Charter of Democracy aimed at establishing a constitutional court in Pakistan. This judiciary-focused amendment, which facilitates the formation of constitutional benches, was passed by parliament last October.
He also touched on his party’s commitment to dialogue and compromise rather than unilateral decision-making. This inclusive approach was evident in their collaboration with opposition figures like Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman to produce compromised legislation despite having significant parliamentary support.
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However, Bilawal defended the Peca amendments, acknowledging that while not perfect, the legislation improved the original proposals, which included excessively harsh penalties. The amended law, which received presidential assent amidst controversy and protests from journalists, introduces stringent measures against the spread of “false” information, establishing bodies like the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority (SMPRA) and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA).
Bilawal concluded by reaffirming his party’s role as a major force in the National Assembly, using its influence to positively impact Pakistan’s legislative landscape, even though it does not have the majority required to dictate terms in parliament.
This interview underscores Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s commitment to strengthening democracy and legislative integrity in Pakistan. It highlights the ongoing efforts to navigate the complexities of modern governance and societal challenges.
