Opposition MPAs back in business

LAHORE: Deputy Speaker Punjab Assembly Zaheer Iqbal Channar restored the membership of 26 suspended Opposition MPAs on Tuesday.

The MPAs were suspended on the charges of committing misconduct and hurting the sanctity of the assembly during the speech of Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz a few weeks ago.

However, the PTI members also protested against the conviction of Opposition leader Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar, who was sentenced 10 years imprisonment by the court in May 9 related case.

Chairing the session, Channar said he was not enjoying the proceedings without his colleagues from Opposition. Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Mujtaba Shuja ur Rehman said that CM Punjab had conveyed to the Speaker to review his decision of suspending the members after which their membership had been restored.

He said it was a very welcome sign and also congratulated the Opposition members whose membership was restored.PMLN MPA Amjad Ali Javaid also congratulated the Opposition members on their return to the House.

Opposition MPA from Multan Nadeem Qureshi stated where was the PMLN narrative of ‘Vote ko Izzat Do’ (respect the ballot) while it was itself supporting oppression. He said the convictions of opponents were being celebrated and the political rivals were being arrested over difference of opinion.

Rana M Arshad said that three time Prime Minister of the country was convicted but his workers did not attack GHQ or the monuments of Shuhada. Ahsan Raza Khan of PMLN stated that across the board accountability was underway. He said the elements involved in May 9 incident were taken to task, no matter they were former Major or Brigadier. “Anyone who acts against the state will be held responsible” he said.Meanwhile, PPP Parliamentary leader Ali Haider Gilani tabled a resolution condemning the killings of innocent people in Balochistan.

Two new private university bills introduced

During the Punjab Assembly session on Tuesday, two new private university bills were introduced. One of the private university bills, along with the Punjab Letter of Administration and Succession Certificate (Amendment) Bill 2025, was passed by the Punjab Assembly.

The House also unanimously adopted a resolution condemning the terrorist incident in Balochistan. After the completion of the agenda, Panel of Chairpersons member Zulfiqar Ali Shah adjourned the session until 2pm on Friday.