Thu Sep 12 04:57:37 UTC 2024: ## Parliament in Turmoil: PTI Boycotts Sessions After “Raid” While Speaker Calls for Unity
**Islamabad, Pakistan -** Tensions flared in the Pakistani National Assembly (NA) on Wednesday following a controversial incident involving the arrest of several PTI lawmakers from the Parliament House premises earlier this week. The incident has sparked a political firestorm, with the PTI boycotting all proceedings and demanding a thorough investigation into the “raid.”
The incident, which allegedly involved masked men entering Parliament House, led to the suspension of the security in charge and four other officials for failing to resist the entry of unauthorized individuals. Five CDA officials, who had disconnected the building’s power during the incident, were also transferred.
Despite claims from Information Minister Attaullah Tarar that no lawmaker was taken into custody from the Parliament House, footage emerged showing PTI leaders Zain Qureshi and Sheikh Waqqas Akram being forcefully removed from the building.
Responding to the incident, PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan announced a boycott of all NA and committee proceedings except for token representation. “Until an inquiry is conducted into September 10 events and we are satisfied, the PTI MNAs will not participate in this parliament’s proceedings,” he declared.
Amidst the growing tension, NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq proposed a “Charter of Parliament” to promote unity and cooperation among lawmakers. He called upon parliamentarians to focus on the people’s issues and avoid personal attacks.
A special 18-member committee was also formed to address the smooth functioning of the house, including representatives from all political parties, including the PTI.
Meanwhile, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari called for an end to the “politics of revenge,” emphasizing the need for a constructive working relationship between the government and the opposition.
The incident has highlighted deep political divisions in Pakistan, with the opposition demanding accountability and transparency. The ongoing investigation and the formation of the special committee hold the key to resolving the crisis and ensuring the smooth functioning of the Parliament.
First Piper 