NA Speaker Assures Opposition of Full Cooperation in Talks with Government

Islamabad: Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has assured the opposition of his complete cooperation in facilitating negotiations with the government. In a statement released by the National Assembly Secretariat, Sadiq underscored his commitment to serving as the “Custodian of the House.”

According to Radio Pakistan, the Speaker emphasized the importance of dialogue as the sole means to resolve political disagreements and expressed his intention to act as a mediator between the government and the opposition to achieve this goal. Despite his assurances, the opposition proceeded with a walkout from the National Assembly.

Sardar Ayaz Sadiq highlighted that the Constitution, laws, parliamentary traditions, and rules are applicable to all members equally, and their adherence is crucial for the reinforcement of democracy. He drew a parallel to the recent arrest of Indian Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi, noting that no “production orders” were issued in that instance.

The Speaker stressed the significance of the National Assembly and the Senate, describing them as a “grand jirga” and called upon all political entities to actively participate in strengthening the Parliament. He reiterated that while differences of opinion are a fundamental aspect of democracy, it is in the national interest to channel these differences into constructive dialogue.