Govt tables resolution in NA seeking endorsement of K-P emergency

Law minister defends imposition of emergency in K-P, citing internal unrest and cross-border infiltration

ISLAMABAD:

The federal government on Wednesday tabled a resolution in the National Assembly (NA) seeking parliamentary approval of President Asif Ali Zardari's proclamation of emergency in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) under Article 232 of the Constitution.

The developments emerged after the federal government imposed emergency and governor's rule in K-P on October 11, suspending the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led provincial administration amid a dispute over the province's security situation and counter-terrorism measures. The government has defended the move, citing a deterioration in law and order and an alleged failure by the provincial administration to coordinate counter-terrorism efforts with federal authorities.

Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry presented the resolution today before the House.

During the proceedings, Chaudhry moved a separate motion seeking the suspension of Question Hour to allow the House to take up other parliamentary business.

Opposition lawmakers opposed the motion, but it was adopted by a majority vote.

Speaking during the session, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar defended the imposition of emergency in K-P, citing internal unrest and cross-border infiltration, while accusing the former provincial government of failing to take the growing threat of terrorism seriously.

He alleged that the K-P government's approach towards combating terrorism had been inadequate and lacked the seriousness required to address the deteriorating security situation.

Tarar also criticised non-functional chief minister Sohail Afridi, accusing him of prioritising his political interests over efforts to tackle terrorism in the province.

The minister further alleged that Afridi had disregarded the sacrifices made by security personnel and civilians who had lost their lives in terrorist attacks.

 

This is a developing story,...