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PAC Meeting Adjourned Amid Protests Over Retaliation Against Sanaullah Mastikhel
PAC meeting adjourned amid protests over action against MNA Sanaullah Mastikhel. Lawmakers unite to condemn the move. Mastikhel vows to keep pushing for transparency.
ND
by News Desk
2025-04-16
PAC Meeting Adjourned Amid Protests Over Retaliation Against Sanaullah Mastikhel

A meeting of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the National Assembly, chaired by Junaid Akbar Khan, was adjourned without discussing any audit objections due to protests sparked by the alleged retaliation against MNA Sanaullah Mastikhel.

The Incident that Sparked the Protests

The protests erupted after MNA Sanaullah Mastikhel revealed that, following his questions regarding the role of a general in the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), officials removed the meter and transformer from his village. Mastikhel said that his inquiry led to the retaliatory actions by WAPDA, highlighting the growing concerns over safety and the protection of public representatives.

Expressing his anger over the incident, Chairman Junaid Akbar Khan voiced regret, stating, "If this attitude is maintained, it is not possible to continue the PAC meeting." He acknowledged that this was not just a matter for one member but an issue affecting the entire Parliament.

Committee Members Unite in Protest

The incident quickly sparked strong reactions from PAC members. Khawaja Shiraz Mahmood stated, “Whatever the decision is, we stand with Sanaullah Khan Mastikhel,” while Senator Saleem Mandviwala emphasized that such actions were unacceptable and called for an immediate letter to the Speaker.

Hina Rabbani Khar expressed her frustration, questioning the legitimacy of Parliament if members’ safety was compromised. "If such reactions are received when a member raises a question, then we should do our work, not sit in Parliament," she said.

In a similarly emotional tone, Sanaullah Mastikhel defended his actions, asserting, "We are loyal to Pakistan... if anyone has an objection, they can demolish my house and make a video, but we will not come under pressure."

The Response from PAC Leadership

Naveed Qamar pointed out that the incident was an insult to the entire House, and Senator Afnanullah Khan echoed the call for strong condemnation and action against those responsible. Hina Rabbani Khar condemned the act as "hooliganism," further fueling the committee’s stance against such retaliation.

Chairman Junaid Akbar Khan, recognizing the gravity of the situation, assured members that he would call the Secretary of Power immediately, and also summon the FESCO Chief the following day for further investigation.

Condemnation of the Incident

Later, speaking to the media, Chairman Junaid Akbar Khan expressed that the incident was not just an attack on the PAC but on Parliament and democracy itself. He elaborated that the anger directed at Mastikhel had no direct link to FESCO but was an act orchestrated by unknown forces operating behind the scenes.

Mastikhel's Stand on Accountability

In his statement to the media, Sanaullah Mastikhel made it clear that he would continue his efforts for accountability and transparency. "Electrical material or transformer is not a big issue, but the reaction to the question is actually an insult to the Parliament," he said, stressing the importance of holding officials accountable without discrimination.

He clarified that he was neither a defaulter nor had he ever acted against Pakistan. His stand remains firm – he will not back down from questioning those in power, no matter the retaliation.

The Path Forward

The PAC has vowed to continue its work, despite the disruption. Chairman Junaid Akbar Khan expressed a commitment to strengthening Parliament and its democratic processes. The committee’s decision to raise the issue with the Speaker indicates that the matter will not be brushed aside, and it may serve as a pivotal moment for ensuring the safety of public representatives and upholding the sanctity of the legislative process.

 
Tagged:

PAC

parliament

Democracy

PublicAccountability

SanaullahMastikhel

Retaliation
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