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Speaker Recognizes Opposition’s Rights, Vows Written Accord on House Conduct
Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmed Khan acknowledges opposition’s right to protest but stresses constitutional limits. Says rules on House sanctity to be formalized in writing within 3 days.
ND
by News Desk
2025-07-14
Speaker Recognizes Opposition’s Rights, Vows Written Accord on House Conduct

Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmed Khan stated on Monday that the opposition’s right to protest has been recognized and any decision regarding the sanctity and rules of the House will now be formalized in writing. His comments came during an informal conversation with journalists in Lahore, amid heightened tensions between treasury and opposition benches.

Khan noted that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right, there must be respect for the institution of the Assembly. “You cannot fight or gang up to physically assault a finance minister,” he warned, referencing past disruptions in the House.

“I’ve recognized the opposition’s right. They’ll be allowed to protest — but within constitutional boundaries,” the Speaker asserted.

He added that both the government and opposition have reached a mutual understanding on upholding human rights and maintaining decorum in the Assembly. A written agreement between both sides is expected within the next three days, outlining protocols for conduct, protest, and debate inside the House.

Rules & Suspension Clarified

The Speaker also clarified procedural matters regarding suspensions under Assembly rules:

“If the Speaker doesn’t decide on disqualification within 30 days, the matter automatically moves to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP),” he explained.

He described the return of opposition members to the Punjab Assembly as a positive development, stating,

“Give them the opportunity to consult their legal teams and resolve issues through proper channels.”

Tension Between Assemblies

Malik Ahmed Khan also revealed that the Speaker of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly had written to him about the suspension of opposition members. He criticized his KP counterpart for aligning with a political party’s protest, suggesting this may blur the lines between neutrality and partisanship in parliamentary leadership.

The Punjab Assembly has recently witnessed a series of chaotic sessions, with opposition members protesting budget proceedings and accusing the government of violating parliamentary norms. With both sides now agreeing to a code of conduct, this move is seen as an attempt to stabilize proceedings and restore legislative order.

Khan concluded by emphasizing that equal rights will be ensured for both sides moving forward.

 
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