ISLAMABAD: Parliamentary action intensifies as the National Assembly suspended PTI lawmaker Iqbal Afridi for the entire budget session following serious allegations of misconduct. The decision came during a heated sitting in Islamabad on Thursday.
Disciplinary Action in the House
Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq ordered Afridi’s immediate removal from the House after accusing him of misbehaving with assembly staff, the DG Media, and police personnel. He said Afridi raised his hand against staff and acted rudely during proceedings. “All this is unacceptable,” the Speaker stated firmly as tensions escalated inside the chamber.
Moreover, lawmaker Farah Naz Akbar moved a formal motion for suspension, which the House approved by majority vote. As a result, Afridi will not receive allowances or TA/DA during the suspension period. The Speaker also directed security personnel to escort him out if he refused to leave voluntarily. Subsequently, Afridi exited the House amid a tense atmosphere.
Quorum Drama and Legislative Business
Earlier, Afridi repeatedly pointed out quorum issues, causing multiple interruptions. At one stage, the sitting was adjourned when the quorum was incomplete. However, after verification, proceedings resumed once the quorum was restored. Still, Afridi raised the issue again, prompting anger from the Speaker, who said quorum rules cannot be misused repeatedly.
Meanwhile, the House continued legislative work. The National Assembly passed the Pakistan Telecommunication Re-Organisation (Amendment) Bill 2025. The bill was presented by IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja. In addition, amendments related to tribunal retirement age and telecom dispute resolution were approved after brief debate.
Furthermore, PPP lawmaker Syed Naveed Qamar proposed amendments concerning 5G fibre optic right-of-way disputes and fine limits. The House forwarded these for consideration amid mixed responses.
Political Reaction Outside Parliament
Separately, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan criticized the upcoming budget, calling it non-relief oriented. He said inflation remains high and utility costs burden citizens. He also claimed the government relies on “fake figures” and demanded public relief. PTI parliamentary members scheduled a strategy meeting later in the day.
The session continued amid rising political tensions and procedural disputes inside the House.
