ISLAMABAD: Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Major General (retd) Hafeez ur Rehman, has issued a statement addressing the controversy surrounding his remarks to Senator Aimal Wali Khan during a recent Senate committee meeting, characterising the fallout as a “misunderstanding” amplified by political and social media campaigns.
In his clarification, Rehman expressed regret over the incident and denied any intent to be disrespectful or use unparliamentary language. He described the comment as part of a “light-hearted exchange” and reiterated that he had already offered a public apology during the session.
“I hold Senator Aimal Wali Khan and his family in the highest regard,” Rehman said, adding that he respects all members of Parliament and remains committed to serving the country while upholding parliamentary decorum.
The controversy erupted during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology, where tensions flared after the PTA chairman allegedly made a sarcastic remark implying drug use. According to those present, Rehman said, “Give me some of that too,” as Senator Aimal returned from a brief break—an insinuation the senator found deeply offensive.
Senator Aimal Wali Files Privilege Motion Against PTA Chairman
In response to the incident, Senator Aimal Wali Khan submitted a privilege motion in the Senate, accusing the PTA chairman of misconduct and disrespect during the meeting.
Detailing the episode on the Senate floor, Senator Aimal said the PTA chief made an inappropriate comment in Pashto after he briefly stepped out to smoke in the corridor. He further claimed the chairman repeated the remark in front of the committee chair, escalating the insult.
“This wasn’t just an insult directed at me—it was an affront to the dignity of the entire Senate,” Aimal said, demanding the matter be taken up seriously. He also announced his decision to boycott future committee meetings, expressing disillusionment with the process.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar voiced support for Senator Aimal’s motion, after which Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani formally referred the matter to the Senate Privileges Committee for further examination and possible disciplinary action.
