LAHORE: The Punjab Assembly on Thursday has passed a condemnation resolution against the May 9 incident, terming it a conspiracy by extremist elements and a political party.
The resolution demands action against those responsible and the masterminds.
The Punjab Assembly session started with a delay of two hours and 15 minutes. The session was chaired by Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan.
The resolution was presented by Punjab Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Mujtaba Shuja ur Rehman. As the resolution was presented, opposition created a ruckus in the assembly hall after the resolution was approved.
The opposition tore up copies of the resolution and waved them in the air, leading to a heated argument between government and opposition members.”
The opposition also raised questions about the women who came to the assembly on reserved seats after the Supreme Court’s decision.
The approved resolution states that this house condemns the May 9 incident, in which extremist elements and a political party, under the guise of politics, attacked the institutions of our beloved country, dishonoured the national security institutions and the martyrs’ memorials, and set the residence of the Founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam, ablaze.
The resolution states that an attempt was made to damage the international reputation of our country. However, our national institutions foiled the conspiracy and saved the country from great destruction.
This house demands that those responsible for the May 9 incident and the masterminds behind it be brought to justice.
The opposition protested inside the assembly hall against the resolution and later also staged a protest outside the assembly, where opposition members reached the chairing cross and had their protest recorded.
Opposition member in Punjab Assembly, Rana Aftab Ahmed raised his objection on the status of women who came on reserved seats after the Supreme Court’s decision, saying that they have no moral, legal, or political right to sit in the assembly.
The Speaker, while giving a ruling, said that until the Election Commission issues a notification, no action can be taken.
In the Punjab Assembly, the duration of the Health Care Commission and Essential Items Ordinance was extended by 90 days, while audit reports of various departments were also presented in the house. Speaker of the Assembly, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, adjourned the session until Friday at 2 pm due to the completion of the agenda.
Earlier, Speaker Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmed Khan met Australian High Commissioner Mr. Neil Hawkins in the Assembly Chamber on Thursday. The meeting discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation in various fields such as health, education, agriculture, and culture between Pakistan and Australia. The Speaker emphasised Pakistan’s friendly relations with Australia and highlighted significant investment opportunities for Australia in information technology and tourism sectors.
“Both the countries need to further increase parliamentary relations and economic cooperation,” Speaker said.
Both the dignitaries agreed that enhancing parliamentary relations and economic cooperation would be beneficial for both countries.
“We’ll welcome Australia’s cooperation in education and health sectors. It is essential to promote business ties between Pakistan and Australia,” Speaker said.
Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmed Khan briefed the Australian High Commissioner on legislation and the committee system in the Punjab Assembly. Australian High Commissioner Neil Hawkins stated that Australia considers Pakistan as a trusted friend and an important economic partner. Australian investors are keen on investing in Pakistan. The Punjab government will take steps to promote cooperation in various fields. Political Secretary Michael Courtive and Program Officer Political Economy Matin Amin were also present in the meeting. Secretary-General Chaudhry Aamir Habib and Staff Officer for Speaker Imad Hussain Bhalli were also present from the Assembly Secretariat.
Meanwhile, Speaker Punjab Assembly, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, called on Governor Punjab Muhammad Balighur Rehman at Governor House Lahore. During the meeting, Speaker Punjab Assembly congratulated Governor Punjab on performing Umrah.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
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