The interim government has dismissed claims circulating on social media that it will remain in power for an additional six months if the “Yes” vote prevails in the upcoming national referendum.
In a statement issued Thursday night, the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing clarified that these reports are “entirely baseless and misleading.” The clarification was posted on the “CA Press Wing Facts” verified Facebook page to address growing confusion regarding the February 12 referendum.
Clarifying the 180-Day Reform Period
The rumors were fueled by a misinterpreted “photo card” attributed to Independent Television, featuring a headline about constitutional reforms. The headline quoted Professor Ali Riaz, Vice-Chairman of the National Consensus Commission and a renowned political scientist, stating that Members of Parliament would act as a “Constituent Assembly” for 180 days after the election.
The Press Wing explained that Professor Riaz’s comments were taken out of context. He had actually argued that:
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The transition of power to an elected government will not be hindered by the constitutional reform process.
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Elected representatives will take a separate oath to conclude reforms within 180 working days.
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From their first day in office, the newly elected Parliament will perform regular legislative duties and form a government.
“Professor Ali Riaz never stated that the current interim government would function as a Constituent Assembly. That responsibility lies solely with the representatives elected in the next national election,” the statement clarified.
The “Dual Role” of the Next Parliament
The government further cited the “July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order, 2025” to explain the legal framework. According to Article 7 of the Order, if the “Yes” vote wins:
| Entity | Role & Responsibility |
| Interim Government | Hands over power immediately following the election results. |
| 13th National Parliament | Assumes a dual role as both the national legislature and the Constitutional Reform Council. |
| Reform Timeline | The Council must complete constitutional amendments within 180 working days from its first session. |
| Dissolution | Once the reform period ends, the “Council” status expires, and members continue solely as MPs. |
The government emphasized that nowhere in the existing orders is there any provision for extending the tenure of the interim administration. Instead, the 180-day window is a mandate for the incoming elected parliament to finalize the reforms agreed upon in the July National Charter.
