POLITICS & POLICY MAKING
The Punjab Assembly witnessed protests by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawmakers during its session on Friday. PTI members demanded the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, holding banners and chanting slogans both inside and outside the assembly hall.
Session Highlights
The session, chaired by Deputy Speaker Zaheer Ahmed Chanar, included participation from both government and opposition members. However, tensions flared when PTI lawmakers disrupted proceedings by chanting slogans and displaying banners in support of their party’s founding chairman.
The protests intensified during the speech of Punjab Agriculture Minister, as opposition members refused to heed the deputy speaker’s instructions to maintain decorum and take their seats.
Opposition Walkout
The protest escalated when Opposition Leader Ahmed Khan Bachhar accused the government of ignoring a privilege motion filed by PTI members.
“We submitted a privilege motion against police abuses targeting our MPAs from May 9, 2023, to November 26, 2026, but no action has been taken,” Bachhar said. He criticized the Privileges Committee for not addressing their grievances and announced a boycott of the session.
Government’s Efforts to Reconcile
In response, Deputy Speaker Zaheer Ahmed Chanar dispatched Punjab Law Minister Sohaib Bharath and Samiullah Khan to negotiate with the opposition members. Following deliberations, the opposition returned to the House, resuming the session’s proceedings.
Background
The PTI has been vocal in demanding the release of Imran Khan, who faces legal challenges and remains a central figure in the party’s political agenda. The protests in Punjab Assembly underscore the party’s ongoing struggle to bring attention to its grievances against the government and law enforcement.
Conclusion
While the opposition’s walkout highlighted their discontent, the government's efforts to engage them reflect a bid to maintain parliamentary order. The political dynamics in Punjab remain charged, with both sides navigating a highly polarized environment.