Speaker of the Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan on Monday issued a stern ruling directing provincial ministers to ensure their presence in the House, expressing frustration over their continued absence and false claims of official engagements.
During the session, lawmakers from both the treasury and opposition benches raised concerns over the non-serious attitude of cabinet members, criticizing the Speaker for, at times, defending their absence.
"You should detach yourself from shielding the ministers and let them be accountable for their responsibilities," several lawmakers urged Speaker Khan.
PML-N MPA Saeed Akbar Khan particularly highlighted that important issues like the ongoing debate on the wheat procurement policy were being discussed, yet no minister was present in the House.
"Ministers are moving freely without any pressure and are ignoring their duty to attend assembly sessions," he lamented.
Opposition member Rana Shehbaz echoed similar concerns, stating that not a single minister was present to respond to queries or conclude the discussion on the wheat issue.
Speaker Khan acknowledged the criticism, stating, "I have also observed that ministers' benches are frequently empty. If one shows up, the rest disappear. We are compelled to inform Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz that her ministers are avoiding the assembly."
He further revealed that when questioned, ministers often cited prior commitments, but upon verification, it was found that no such engagements existed. "They are misleading the House with false excuses," he said.
Separately, opposition MPA Ashifa Riaz raised alarm over a high number of road accidents occurring daily between the Rajana Interchange in Toba Tek Singh and Chichawatni.
She said 80 to 90 accidents were happening on a daily basis and urged authorities to reduce the existing speed limit of 80km per hour to help prevent further fatalities.
Parliamentary Secretary for Transport and Mass Transit Taimoor Ali Lali acknowledged the issue and shared official data.
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