Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, has stated that the disqualification of 26 opposition members is constitutionally valid under Article 63(2) of the Constitution. He emphasized that lawmakers must respect the Assembly as the “house of democracy” and refrain from behavior that disrupts its integrity.
Speaking to students at LUMS University, the speaker said the 26 opposition lawmakers violated their oath to uphold the Constitution. Their actions during recent Assembly proceedings, including disruptions, abusive gestures, and harassment, have triggered provisions that justify their disqualification.
He criticized the opposition’s history of violent protests during budget sessions, saying such actions have prevented the public from hearing critical announcements for over 22 years. “No matter which party is in opposition, every year they tear budget books and attempt to attack the Speaker,” he remarked.
Malik Ahmad Khan also called the disqualification of Nawaz Sharif by the courts one of the worst judicial decisions in Pakistan’s history. He reiterated that it is the Speaker’s duty to take action against members who violate Assembly decorum, especially those who use obscene gestures or language.
It is worth noting that on June 28, the Speaker suspended 26 opposition lawmakers for protesting during Chief Minister Punjab’s speech. Now, he suggests that under the Constitution, permanent disqualification proceedings may follow based on the breach of oath and disorderly conduct.