PTI holds protest against abuse of Imran’s sisters at Adiala jail
ISLAMABAD:
Wednesday’s National Assembly session was marked by protests, quorum problems and heated exchanges between Treasury and opposition members, ultimately forcing the presidency to adjourn proceedings sine die.
During the question hour, PPP MP Agha Rafiullah criticized the government, saying that despite members’ efforts to prepare questions, the answers provided were vague and unhelpful.
He argued that parliamentary practice was far removed from what democratic procedures prescribe. “What is written in the books does not happen even here, even ten percent,” he said. He also challenged the government to call the FBR toll-free helpline live from home to test its functionality.
Federal Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry defended the government, saying detailed responses had been submitted. He described Rafiullah’s remarks as “political” and said he was ready to test the toll-free number outside the room.
As the arguments continued, PTI lawmakers entered the house holding photographs of their party founder and started chanting slogans.
Opposition members requested a point of order, which President Ali Zahid’s panel refused during question time.
PTI’s Iqbal Afridi repeatedly stressed quorum, urging staff to count members. Although there was initially a quorum, Afridi raised his objection again. A second count confirmed that only 63 lawmakers were present.
Facing protests from PPP lawmakers, the panel of chairmen adjourned the session sine die.
