The resolution, tabled by the MQM in clear reference to recent statements made by the ever-controversial Zulfiqar Mirza, was guardedly passed without quoting any names.
PPP leaders insisted that no one must be named, because it will create more problems.
MQM demands action, PPP opposes
The MQM demanded action against former Sindh home minister Mirza, who is currently in London to submit “evidence” against the MQM to the Scotland Yard.
However, when PPP members opposed acting against Mirza, enraged MQM leaders refused to attend the session. After a handful of senior leaders of the PPP pacified their coalition partners, the session finally started with a two-and-a-half hour delay.
Meanwhile, while talking to the media, MPA Ayesha Khoso said that they will oppose any privilege motion tabled against Mirza. “I am not the only woman MPA to oppose a motion against Mirza; many other lawmakers will stand up against it,” she said, adding that Mirza has given voice to ‘voiceless people’.
Local Government Minister Agha Siraj Durrani said that they have told members of the assembly as well as ministers of their party to follow party policy, otherwise action will be taken against them. “We will welcome any resignation because we cannot tolerate violation of party discipline,” he said.
As the session started, Sindh Law Minister Ayaz Soomro requested that the session be adjourned after offering prayers and adopting a resolution to pay tribute to former first lady Begum Nusrat Bhutto, which was passed unanimously.
PPP MPA Muhammad Hassan Khan Talpur also wanted to move a privilege motion against Mirza. However, as requested by the law minister, the session was adjourned till Monday.
Meanwhile, there was no opposition leader present during the session, as the assembly is to yet elect someone for the slot. “We have given an application to the speaker for the nomination of our opposition leader, but we are still waiting on it,” said Razzaque Rahimoon of the PML-Q (likeminded).
Published in The Express Tribune, November 19th, 2011.
COMMENTS (20)
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Mr. Wassan, respectfully! Were you woken up from your sleep in the middle of the night and then asked to issue this statement?
Why are the Supreme Court's orders defied? Salams to Pakistan
Anybody holding dual office has to face twice as much music. Its simple maths.
Speaking against Zardari is having an opinion they should be free to express. Once it becomes a physical disruption, then you can use this line. (e.g. PML-N's hostile rally preaching)
Sorry. That only applies to criticism of the army or Imran Khan. Anyone else is fair game!
Why not MQM and PPP legislators, as they seem to have all the time in this world, table a special blasphemy law to protect the honour of their holy leaders.
When some difference of opinion arises within a party or coalition partners we are told that this is the beauty of democracy. When opponents critices we are made to believe they are traitors.
Democracy showing its true colors , what a joke seriously. Time for new elections i must say...
Zardari or (any other elected ) being the president of an elected democratic Govt. has every right and by any means available within the frame work to protect the constitution of the country. We elected him so that no other institution can black mail or take over the legal Govt of Pakistan. I think on this particular matter, he took and did what he had to do. No more Martial Law or over throw of democracy in Pakistan period.
Democracy is the Best revenge :)
This gotta be a joke of the century :)
@Mohammad Ali Siddiqui: Zardari Zindabad !!!
Fruits of democracy.... :)
Oh so now no one has the constitutional right to criticize someone??? Are they prophets or absolutely above the law??? Would someone care to explain to us goats?
Zardari is the President of Pakistan and not "Pakistan".
The Flag alongwith the territorial limits of Pakistan is "Pakistan" and no one else.
Any flag of a politcial party cannot fly high than the flag of Pakistan.
This is why majority of the people says "PAKISTAN ZINDABAD".
No populace says awful things about a politician that performs. Trying to shut them up will just result in voices rising not falling.
Truth is always bitter.,..
Interesting to see our elected representatives engaging in such productive activities. I am sure if they continue to act like this for the remainder of their tenure, Pakistan will enter the new elections in a very secure, stable and flourishing state.