ISLAMABAD(National Times)- National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Sunday lifted longstanding curbs on the airing and dissemination of opposition members’ speeches on NA TV, and the assembly’s social media platforms.
However, the removal of the restrictions came with a stern warning that members must strictly abide by the rules and regulations of the house. “I will allow the speeches of opposition members to be aired, but you cannot speak against the judiciary and the armed forces,” the speaker said.
He was responding to a request by PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, who urged him to lift the restrictions on broadcasting opposition speeches and end the suspension of PTI lawmaker Iqbal Afridi.
“Mr Afridi was suspended on June 11 over minor violations. He has already served the longest suspension of any MNA,” Barrister Gohar said.
He also argued that the continued ban on airing opposition speeches was causing resentment among PTI supporters.
The speaker asked Barrister Gohar to move a formal motion on the matter, saying he could not make such a decision unilaterally.
Sadiq also asked Barrister Gohar to ensure that Iqbal Afridi would maintain decorum in the House, referred to his alleged scuffle with fellow PTI member Junaid Akbar, instances of indiscipline and attempts to pressure assembly staff.
The speaker specifically referred to Afridi’s alleged misconduct towards NA director general (media).
“The employees cannot respond to MNAs, but we too must remain within the limits set by the rules,” he said, before reading out provisions of the rule book regarding parliamentary etiquette.
Law Minister Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar later urged the speaker to ensure that no member made speeches against sitting judges or commented on their conduct, warning that such remarks could invite contempt proceedings.
Later, Barrister Gohar moved a motion seeking the termination of Afridi’s suspension. The motion was supported by around 39 opposition members, including lawmakers from PTI, JUI-P, PkMAP and PkNAP.
Only a few voices opposed the motion, which was subsequently adopted by the House, allowing Mr Afridi to attend National Assembly proceedings from Monday (today).
Lawmakers’ conduct
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif delivered a fiery speech, criticising the overall conduct of lawmakers.
“We have turned this house into a fish market. From the entry gates to the lobbies, galleries and even the floor of the house, it often resembles a conference hall rather than a parliament,” he said.
Asif also criticised fellow cabinet members, saying that SUVs with official green number plates were creating congestion within the Parliament Lodges.
The speaker acknowledged concerns about traffic and parking at the Parliament Lodges. He suggested that responsibility for the lodges could be handed over to the interior ministry to ensure better enforcement of the rules.
