PPP govt failed to table resolution over Rangers’ powers in SA

KARACHI: The Pakistan People's Party (PPP) led Sindh government failed to budge yet again on Monday as opposition lawmakers protested in the Sindh Assembly, demanding that a resolution be tabled with regard to extension in the Rangers' stay and special powers in the province.

The provincial assembly was in session when opposition lawmakers gathered on the floor of the assembly and demanded that a resolution be tabled regarding the extension of Rangers' powers in the province.

Speaker Agha Siraj Durrani did not grant the lawmakers' request, saying that he may allow it only after completion of pending business on the agenda.

The Speaker Sindh Assembly said resolution over Rangers’ power was not the part of today’s agenda. He asked opposition leaders Liaquat Jatoi and Arbab Ghulam Rahim to calm their members.

After the Speaker failed to restore order in the House amid sloganeering from opposition lawmakers gathered around his seat, the session was adjourned without any further business until Tuesday, 10 AM.

PPP for limiting Rangers' powers

According to sources, the PPP has already forwarded a draft resolution with regard to the Rangers' special powers and extension of stay to the party leadership for approval.

Sources say the draft resolution endorses the Ranger's stay in Karachi under Article 147. The resolution will also include amendments linking the use of powers against terrorism by the Rangers with the CM's prior permission.

The Sindh government will request in the resolution to the centre to link the Rangers' powers given under the anti-terrorism act to four points.

According to the sources, the Rangers will not have direct authority to take action against key political figures, government offices, government officials and welfare organisations. The resolution will also demand making the four points as part of the notification to be issued with regard to the Rangers powers.

Earlier speaking to Geo News today regarding the resolution, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) leader Sardar Ahmed said that his party had not been taken into confidence over the issue or extension of Ranger's powers or the resolution regarding it.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Khurram Sher Zaman said that efforts are underway to bring the resolution into the provincial assembly at the earliest.

Nusrat Sehar of the Pakistan Muslim League – Functional (PML-F) said that they will not allow any effort to shield political figures and their interests.