NCC to Reach Final Decisions on Key Reforms by Thursday: Ali Riaz

NCC to Finalize Major Reform Decisions by Thursday: Ali Riaz

The National Consensus Commission (NCC) is close to finalizing a series of key political reform proposals, with political parties expected to be formally briefed by Thursday, NCC Vice Chair Professor Ali Riaz said on Wednesday.

Speaking during the second phase of dialogue between the NCC and political parties, Prof. Riaz underscored the urgency of concluding the reform process. “Among our responsibilities, timely decision-making is critical. We’re working intensively and aim to share our conclusions with the parties by tomorrow,” he stated.

Wednesday’s discussions addressed several significant issues, including the powers and responsibilities of the President, the process for presidential elections, the structure and election of an upper house, women’s representation in Parliament, the expansion of fundamental rights, the state’s guiding principles, and the appointment procedures for institutions such as the Public Service Commission, Anti-Corruption Commission, Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General, and the Ombudsman.

Prof. Riaz highlighted that considerable progress had been made on women’s representation in Parliament, with a draft proposal already shared with the parties. The NCC has also submitted a separate draft on expanding citizens’ fundamental rights.

While there is broad agreement among political parties in principle, Riaz acknowledged that differences remain over how the proposed reforms should be incorporated into the Constitution.

“By the end of the day, we plan to circulate a list of issues where consensus has been reached,” he said. “Our goal is to present a unified and widely acceptable draft charter to all parties by tomorrow.”