Opposition not yet contacted over COAS's extension issue: NA speaker

Speaker National Assembly, Assad Qaisar said that opposition has not been contacted over legislation relating to extension of Army Chief but the government desires that matter should be resolved through consultation and consensus.

He was addressing a public gathering here Saturday that among others was attended by Provincial Information Minister, Shoukat Yousafzai, Provincial Law Minister, Sultan Mohammad Khan, party elders and local elite.

On the occasion, Arshad Umerzai of Qoumi Watan Party also announced joining Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf with his families and associates.

Speaker said that legislation relating to extension of Army Chief would be made through consultation. He said that decision about appointment of Chief Election Commissioner would probably be made till Monday and added that if the conclusion was not reached the matter would be referred to court of law.

He said that assembly affairs have been run following rules and procedures and courts are available if anyone has any objection. The bill to constitute new provinces is with concerned standing committee and the legislation would be considered and deliberated when it would reach to house, he said

Assad Qaisar said that government is custodian of the laws relating to Namoos-e-Risalat adding Prime Minister also raised voice against blasphemy on international forums. He said that PM has become leader of the Muslim world owing to his bold stance and policies.