POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

BNP Mengal's Qasim Ronjho Resigns from Senate After Floor-Crossing

Senator Qasim Ronjho has resigned from the Senate after pressure from BNP Mengal leadership following his support for the 26th constitutional amendment.
2024-10-22
BNP Mengal's Qasim Ronjho Resigns from Senate After Floor-Crossing

Senator Qasim Ronjho, who recently crossed the floor during a vote on the 26th constitutional amendment, has resigned from his position in the Senate. Ronjho, who was the parliamentary leader of the Balochistan National Party (BNP) Mengal in the Senate, submitted his resignation to the Senate Secretary following directives from party leadership.

 

Ronjho, along with fellow BNP Mengal Senator Seema Ehsan, had voted in favor of the 26th constitutional amendment, a move that drew sharp criticism from the party leadership. BNP Mengal Chairman Sardar Akhtar Mengal reacted swiftly to their decision, demanding that both senators either resign or face expulsion from the party. The party took a firm stance against their floor-crossing, a violation of party discipline, especially on such a significant constitutional matter.

 

Floor-Crossing and Party Response

The 26th constitutional amendment has been a highly contentious issue in Pakistan’s political landscape, with several parties divided on its potential impact on judicial independence and the balance of power. BNP Mengal, a party known for its staunch opposition to the amendment, viewed the actions of Ronjho and Seema Ehsan as a betrayal of party principles.

 

In a stern statement, Sardar Akhtar Mengal directed both senators to resign immediately from their Senate memberships or face expulsion. Ronjho’s decision to submit his resignation follows this ultimatum, signaling his acceptance of the party's disciplinary measures.

 

The status of Seema Ehsan’s resignation, however, remains unclear at the moment.

 

Political Implications

Ronjho’s resignation is significant, as it underscores the increasing tension within political parties over the 26th constitutional amendment. Floor-crossing, especially on high-stakes constitutional matters, is often viewed as a breach of loyalty, and BNP Mengal’s leadership has made it clear that such actions will not be tolerated.

 

Ronjho’s resignation may also affect the overall dynamics in the Senate, where votes on key constitutional and legislative matters can be tightly contested. His departure from BNP Mengal will likely prompt discussions on party loyalty, discipline, and the broader implications of defection in Pakistan’s political system.

 

Conclusion

As BNP Mengal continues to assert its authority within its ranks, the resignation of Senator Qasim Ronjho reflects the party’s determination to maintain internal discipline and unity. With the ongoing political and legal debates surrounding the 26th constitutional amendment, this resignation adds yet another layer to the evolving political landscape in Pakistan.