ISLAMABAD (PEN) : The Punjab Assembly Speaker suspended 26 opposition Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPAs) for 15 days following a heated protest during Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s attendance in the House.
The disciplinary action was announced on Saturday after opposition lawmakers disrupted Friday’s session with slogans, placards, and loud demonstrations targeting the provincial leadership.
Speaker Cites “Violation of Assembly Rules”
Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan described the protest as a direct breach of assembly regulations and emphasized the need to maintain decorum during legislative proceedings.
“This House cannot be allowed to descend into chaos,” said Speaker Khan while announcing the suspensions.
He added that the decision was taken to preserve the dignity and functionality of the legislative forum.
Opposition Slams Move, Vows Continued Resistance
Opposition parties criticized the suspension as an undemocratic attempt to stifle dissent. A senior PTI leader stated:
“Even if you expel them for 15 years, the war against the government will continue.”
They further announced plans to stage protests outside the assembly, denouncing what they termed “authoritarian tactics.”
PML-N Defends Action
In contrast, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) lawmakers supported the move, stating that the suspension was necessary to prevent disruption and ensure smooth legislative proceedings.
The suspended lawmakers are barred from participating in assembly sessions for the next 15 days, effective immediately.
