Minister of Law Urges Fairness in Legislative Actions, Says Protests Must Be Peaceful

Lahore: Minister of Law, Azam Nazeer Tarar, stated that the de-seating of 26 members in the Punjab Assembly could be referred to the Chief Election Commissioner. He emphasized that while protest is a right of the opposition, actions such as throwing chairs and ripping microphones are not acceptable forms of protest.
In a speech following a ceremony in Lahore, the minister addressed questions about the suspension of 26 members from the Punjab Assembly, stating that the powers of the Speaker are vast and that the Speaker has the authority to suspend any member who violates their oath of office. “If you breach your oath, the Speaker has the authority to take action, including suspending members from the assembly,” he explained.
Tarar further added that the Speaker’s role requires neutrality and that even if government members cross the line, the Speaker should demonstrate impartiality. “The Speaker will always uphold neutrality, ensuring that the proceedings of the assembly are fair for all,” he said.
He also clarified his stance on protests, asserting that while protests are the opposition’s right, they must remain within the boundaries of the law. “Throwing chairs and tearing microphones is not protest. There are proper legal channels to address grievances,” he remarked, reaffirming that the Speaker, like the head of a family, would act in the best interest of the democratic process.
On other issues, Tarar discussed a project involving the Islamabad Bar and its budget allocation, stating that the previous government had signed an agreement with the Capital Development Authority (CDA) for construction, and the entire budget for the project had now been allocated in the current year’s budget. He praised the efforts of the legal community and said, “This project is the result of collective effort, not the work of an individual.”
He also highlighted the ongoing support from the legal fraternity, noting that despite disagreements in the past, the Bar had consistently supported the project. “Wajid Gilani has been instrumental in the success of this project. He has never asked for personal gain but always worked for the benefit of the Bar,” he concluded.