By Asim Shahzad
LAHORE – A crucial consultative meeting on the disqualification references against 26 suspended opposition members was held in the Speaker’s Chamber of the Punjab Assembly, chaired by Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan. The meeting was attended by suspended members, government representatives, and senior parliamentary leaders.
During the session, Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan gave the suspended members an opportunity to present their point of view. Formal hearings were also conducted on applications submitted by government members.
In a major development, both the government and the opposition proposed initiating a mutual dialogue to resolve the issue. The suggestion was welcomed by the Speaker, who emphasized the need for constructive engagement. To make the process more effective, it was agreed to form a joint committee comprising senior members from both sides, tasked with finding a constitutional, legal, and parliamentary solution to the matter.
Speaking at the occasion, Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan remarked,
“Dialogue and consultation are the essence of parliamentary democracy. Every disagreement can be resolved through a positive, dignified, and constitutional approach.”
He termed the initiative a positive parliamentary tradition and expressed hope that all parties would proceed with wisdom, patience, and a strong commitment to democratic values.
It was also decided that the next round of consultations among parliamentary leaders will take place on Sunday at the Punjab Assembly, with Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan presiding.
