ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly and Senate will meet in separate sessions today after the recent approval of the 27th Constitutional Amendment. President Asif Ali Zardari summoned the National Assembly session for 5 pm under Article 54(1) of the Constitution. Today’s sitting marks the 22nd session of the current assembly. Officials said the government prepared an extensive legislative agenda for the proceedings. According to the NA Secretariat, the agenda includes 15 important items for consideration.
A joint sitting will also take place during the parliamentary schedule, which will continue until mid-December. Parliamentary sources said the government does not plan to introduce the speculated 28th Constitutional Amendment in these sessions. The News earlier reported similar indications from relevant officials.
Key National Issues to Come Under Discussion
Meanwhile, lawmakers will separately discuss the law and order situation and important aspects of foreign policy in both Houses. The federal government passed the 27th Constitutional Amendment with a majority in both chambers. The amendment introduced major changes to the judicial structure and military command. After the new changes, Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah said the 28th Amendment would arrive soon. He expressed confidence that parliament would pass it without major hurdles.
Today, Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq will chair the National Assembly sitting. Deputy Chairman Senate, Saidal Khan, will conduct the Upper House proceedings during the session.
Proceedings Set to Continue Without Opposition Leaders
Interestingly, both Houses will function without opposition leaders for the fifth consecutive session. PTI founder Imran Khan nominated Mahmood Khan Achakzai for the National Assembly. Raja Nasir Abbas was nominated for the Senate. Both nominees do not belong to the majority opposition parties in either House. Their nominations carry technical complications, making their immediate appointment unlikely.
Newly elected NA members will also take oath during the session. Officials expect the oath-taking next week after the Election Commission of Pakistan issues formal notifications. Sources said PTI members will likely stage protests during the proceedings. They may also disrupt the session over recent by-election results and Imran Khan’s imprisonment.
