Background: What Sparked the Suspension?
The 26 PTI MPAs were suspended for 15 sittings after chaos erupted during Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s budget speech. The session was disrupted by protest slogans, accusations, abusive language, and physical obstruction. The opposition members reportedly damaged furniture, tore up agenda papers, and interfered with the proceedings.
Ten of the suspended lawmakers were also served notices demanding payment for damages caused during the session—those notices have now been officially withdrawn.
Speaker Emphasizes Due Legal Process
In a detailed ruling, Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan clarified that his role was not to forward disqualification petitions to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) without proper legal review. He warned that bypassing the courts could undermine constitutional norms and threaten the freedom of expression within the assembly.
He added that serious charges—such as violating constitutional oaths or rules—must first be established in a court of law before any action under Article 63(2) of the Constitution can be considered. Only after a judicial verdict would he determine whether disqualification proceedings were justified.
Disqualification Requests Rejected
The speaker rejected all four petitions that sought the disqualification of the PTI members. These petitions made references to the Panama Papers case and invoked Articles 199 and 184(3) of the Constitution. However, the speaker ruled that such comparisons were not applicable in this context and noted that only a competent tribunal or court could decide on such serious legal matters.
Petitioners have the option to resubmit their complaints, but only if supported by a binding court ruling.
Restoration of Parliamentary Roles and Committees
In another positive move, the notices issued for financial damages have been retracted. Moreover, the decision to remove PTI lawmakers from the chairmanship of 13 standing committees is also being reversed. The four opposition members who were removed via no-confidence votes are now expected to be reinstated.
Opposition’s Response: Public Assembly and Resolution
Despite these reconciliatory steps, the opposition continues to apply pressure. A symbolic ‘public assembly’ was held outside the Punjab Assembly, where PTI leaders, including Ahmad Khan Bhachar, slammed the government over issues like flood mismanagement, rising inflation, and alleged political victimization.
The opposition passed a resolution condemning the government’s actions, vowing not to return to the assembly until all suspended members are restored to their seats.
Looking Forward: Toward Stability and Dialogue
Political analysts view the speaker’s decision as an attempt to restore constitutional integrity and ensure stability within the legislature. Both government and opposition leaders have reportedly agreed to reactivate the Advisory and Ethics Committees, with a mutual commitment to avoid indecent language and maintain decorum in future sessions.
The immediate focus now shifts to the formal reinstatement of the 26 suspended PTI lawmakers—seen as a vital step toward resuming full legislative operations in Punjab.
📊 Quick Summary Table
| Key Action | Details |
| Petitions Rejected | Disqualification requests against 26 PTI MPAs dismissed |
| Legal Basis Required | Disqualification only after a competent court’s verdict |
| Suspension Background | Misconduct during June 27 budget session |
| Notices Withdrawn | Damage payment demands to 10 MPAs cancelled |
| Committee Restoration | Chairmanships of standing committees to be reinstated |
| Opposition Activity | Outdoor protest sessions and condemnation resolutionz |
