Opposition Boycotts Punjab Assembly Session Over Member Suspension

Islamabad:Today’s session of the Punjab Assembly was convened in response to opposition demands, specifically to address the suspension of 11 opposition members for a day. The assembly was scheduled to commence at 3 pm; however, opposition members arrived ahead of time and conducted a public assembly outside the Punjab Assembly building.

Opposition members appointed their own speaker and passed resolutions during the session, including condemning rising electricity tariffs and expressing solidarity with Palestine and Kashmir. They delivered speeches, reiterating their stance that they would not participate in the Punjab Assembly sessions until the suspension of their 11 members is revoked.

Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, Malik Ahmed Khan, took note of these developments and presented a charge sheet against the opposition. He expressed dismay over the absence of opposition members and highlighted that the session incurred an expenditure of Rs. 27.1 million.

Addressing concerns about attendance, Malik Ahmed Khan remarked that while assembly members receive daily allowances, 60 opposition members attended to mark their presence for the attendance record.

He further stated that while public demonstrations within the assembly premises are permissible, the assembly cannot function effectively if members choose to boycott sessions without prior notice of their intent.

Regarding demands from the opposition speaker, Malik Ahmed Khan acknowledged that requests for facilities such as chambers, chambers, government vehicles, and staff are under consideration.

He emphasized that this incident marks a unique occurrence where the opposition submitted a resolution and its members did not attend the session themselves.

The speaker added that he has sought legal advice from the Law Ministry on how to proceed with such expenditures, reiterating the assembly’s commitment to maintaining ethical standards. He warned that members engaging in misconduct would be required to apologize publicly within the assembly.

Malik Ahmed Khan concluded by emphasizing the assembly’s adherence to ethical norms and its intention to uphold decorum and parliamentary etiquette.

This session underscores ongoing tensions within the Punjab Assembly, reflecting broader political dynamics and the challenges of maintaining legislative order amidst opposition boycotts.