Senate opposition leader Shibli Faraz has expressed his concerns to Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani regarding the presence of PPP Senator Palwasha Khan in the chair during Friday’s session, a move he believes undermines the dignity and authority of the office.
The incident unfolded during a session marked by contentious exchanges between the treasury and opposition benches, particularly focused on Palwasha Khan’s role as she chaired the proceedings in the presence of Senate Deputy Chairman Syedal Khan Nasir.
While Chairman Gilani initially presided over the session, he left approximately 40 minutes into the proceedings, at which point Senator Palwasha assumed the chair.
This transition prompted criticism from PTI Senator Fauzia Arshad, who questioned the appropriateness of Palwasha presiding while the deputy chairman was present.
In response, Palwasha defended her actions, citing the chairman’s discretion in making such decisions and noting that the deputy chairman had arrived after she had already begun chairing.
Echoing the sentiments of his PTI colleague, Leader of the Opposition Shibli Faraz emphasized the importance of upholding the sanctity of the Senate and avoiding actions that could undermine its integrity. He criticized the situation as making the deputy chairman a mere ornament in the proceedings, rather than acknowledging his constitutional significance.
In his letter to the Senate chairman, Shibli Faraz referenced international parliamentary norms, arguing that it is considered disrespectful for any member to preside over sessions when the deputy chairman is present.
He highlighted a perceived violation of Rule 14 of the Senate’s procedural rules, which designates the deputy chairman to chair sessions in the chairman’s absence. While not explicitly recommending any punitive measures, Faraz underscored the need to uphold parliamentary decorum and adhere to established rules.
Ultimately, he emphasized that Palwasha’s actions could diminish the authority and respect of the deputy chairman’s office.
