Senate Debates Judicial Interference in Parliamentary Proceedings, Condemns Israeli Knesset’s West Bank Resolution

Islamabad: The Senate of Pakistan held a heated debate over judicial stay orders issued against the proceedings of its standing committees, with several lawmakers terming it a violation of the sanctity of parliamentary authority and an interference in the Upper House’s affairs.
Presided over by Irfan Siddiqui, the Senate session saw strong criticism from members including Senator Saifullah Abro, who alleged serious irregularities in the Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA), calling for action against those responsible, including senior ministers allegedly involved.
Federal Minister for Housing Riaz Hussain Pirzada acknowledged long-standing project delays by FGEHA and referred the matter to the relevant standing committee.
Senator Saleem Mandviwala, expressing serious concern, stated that Islamabad High Court’s stay orders on Senate committee hearings amount to interference in the House’s proceedings, even though the Senate has never interfered with judicial processes despite having no legal restrictions against it. He urged that the Attorney General be summoned for immediate explanation.
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry supported the proposal to involve the Attorney General and present the matter before the Minister for Law. Senator Kamran Murtaza also stressed that the House should formally register its disapproval over judicial interventions and expressed concern over lawyers being unlawfully detained in Balochistan.
Senator Safiullah Abro and Senator Zameer Ghumro pointed out that judicial actions against parliamentary matters go against the constitutional principle of separation of powers.
Oath-Taking of New Senators
Newly elected Senators Rubina Naz from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Hafiz Abdul Karim of PML-N took oath during the session, administered by Irfan Siddiqui and Shahadat Awan respectively. So far, 10 out of 11 newly elected members have taken the oath of office.
Question Hour Highlights Housing Issues
During the Question Hour, Senator Masroor Ahsan raised the issue of delayed possession of plots in Islamabad’s G-14/1 sector despite a 2022 court order. Minister Riaz Pirzada responded, citing systemic inefficiencies and political interference as root causes of delay in housing projects.
Senator Humayun Mohmand criticized poor urban planning, linking it to recent accidents in areas like DHA Phase V and Saidpur.
Pirzada admitted political favoritism leads to delays, and pointed out that thousands of houses were built in areas lacking basic amenities like water, with no accountability. He assured swift action on allotment issues.
Senate Unanimously Condemns Israeli Knesset Resolution
Senators Palwasha Khan and Quratulain Marri tabled a resolution strongly condemning the Israeli Knesset’s resolution regarding annexation of the West Bank. The Senate passed the resolution unanimously, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people and denouncing Israel’s aggressive intentions.
Discussion on Tariff Reform Policy
Senator Zeeshan Khanzada criticized the government’s “Tariff Reform Policy,” arguing that the plan lacks real implementation and fails to eliminate customs duties, ultimately harming export potential. He lamented that discussions on rule of law are restricted while trade and finance are superficially addressed.