Denies bias in reference proceedings, calls for respect of rules and decorum
By Asim Shahzad
LAHORE – Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, has clarified that his role regarding disqualification references is strictly defined by the Constitution and Rules of Business, countering the impression that he is eager to send references against members.
Speaking to journalists, the Speaker emphasized that Article 63(2) of the Constitution is unambiguous. “If a question arises about a member’s disqualification, it is for the Speaker to determine whether the question is valid. If no decision is made within 30 days, the matter automatically goes to the Election Commission,” he explained.
He revealed that he has received three constitutional applications from members Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman, Ahmad Iqbal, and Iftikhar Chhachhar—not references—and these would be dealt with strictly as per constitutional provisions.
Recalling a key incident from 2017, Malik Ahmad Khan mentioned that 22 PTI MNAs had submitted a similar request to then National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq concerning a statement by Mian Nawaz Sharif. When no decision was made within the constitutional timeframe, the Supreme Court took suo motu notice—a move that, according to him, was constitutionally controversial.
The Speaker urged both government and opposition to resolve issues through dialogue. “We have discussed five key points and agreed that foul language, sloganeering, and violations of human rights have no place in the House. Rule 223 of the Rules of Procedure must be observed by all members,” he said.
He noted that the Assembly has always maintained order during Chief Minister speeches, acknowledging the opposition’s right to protest while stressing the importance of parliamentary norms and decorum.
Malik Ahmad Khan also made it clear that he does not endorse character assassination or humiliation of any member. “No one will be stopped from speaking, but mob behavior, aggression, and actions like throwing books are entirely unacceptable,” he stated.
He further disclosed that he has received a letter from the Speaker of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly concerning the suspension of opposition members. A detailed reply supported by constitutional references is being sent in response.
Concluding his remarks, the Speaker affirmed his commitment to preserving the dignity of the Assembly while remaining within constitutional boundaries. “A decision will be taken soon, and it will be formally documented with consensus from both the government and the opposition, ensuring a more respectful and functional parliamentary environment,” he said.
