Senators condemn resolution backing military trials

PML-N's Sadia laments its passage in absence of 92 senators; Senator Mushtaq questions its 'military-like tone'

ISLAMABAD:

Senators from various political parties have vehemently opposed a resolution passed by the upper house of parliament in their absence against the Supreme Court’s ruling regarding conducting trials of civilians in military courts.

The Senate had adopted a resolution on Monday urging the apex court to reconsider its verdict that nullified the military trials of civilians arrested during the nationwide protests on May 9.

During the session led by Senate Deputy Chairman Mirza Afridi on Tuesday, PML-N’s Sadia Abbasi strongly condemned the resolution, highlighting that the decision was made without the presence of a total of 92 members.

She labelled the approval of the resolution as an assault on democratic principles, asserting that military courts should not be permitted to conduct trials of civilians under any circumstances.

The PML-N senator contended that the apex court’s decision was in the public's best interest, whereas the resolution presented went against democratic values, bemoaning the use of the house for such a purpose.

She criticised the irregular manner in which the resolution was introduced, deviating from parliamentary traditions, and urged for its withdrawal, especially with elections looming ahead.

Read also: Senate deems SC’s military trial ruling flawed

However, despite demands from members of various political parties – including PML-N, PPP, ANP, PTI and JI – to discuss the resolution, the Senate deputy chairman pressed to continue with the set agenda.

Similarly, Senator Mushtaq Ahmed staunchly opposed the resolution, questioning its military-like tone and the lack of transparency in its presentation.

He highlighted the procedural irregularities, asserting that the resolution appeared to exert undue pressure on the Supreme Court concerning military courts.

PML-N Senator Saifullah Abro highlighted the quorum in the meeting, noting the absence of the required number of members.

Consequently, the session was adjourned, and bells were rung in the galleries for five minutes under the instructions of the Senate deputy chairman.

The session was adjourned until 10:30am on Wednesday (today).