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Business Recorder
26-05-2025
- Health
- Business Recorder
Punjab PA Speaker firmly opposes proposed ‘Gunda Act'
LAHORE: Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan has firmly opposed the proposed 'Gunda Act' prepared by the provincial Home Department, stating that he cannot support such a law. He declared that if necessary, he would even approach Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, emphasizing that he would go to any lengths but would never accept this kind of legislation. While talking to media outside Punjab Assembly, Speaker offered unsolicited advice to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), urging the party to abandon its talk of no-confidence motions. He claimed that several politicians within PTI strongly oppose the party's political approach and warned that 20 to 25 members might defect during any no-confidence motion. Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan stressed the need to eliminate terrorism from its roots, stating that no crime is greater than committing offences under the guise of politics. Referring to the alleged involvement of Indian spy agency RAW in Balochistan, he expressed confidence that the Pakistan Army would eradicate such threats completely. Commenting on reports of former Prime Minister and PTI founder Imran Khan's potential release or deal, the Speaker questioned why there had been a 'show of speeches' over the past two to three years if such reports were true. He added that playing with public emotions in such situations is inappropriate. Meanwhile, opposition leader in Punjab Assembly Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar strongly criticized the government while talking to media outside Punjab Assembly. He said the Chief Minister of Punjab Maryam Nawaz has lied to the people once again. He also said the government is claiming that they are providing free medicines in all public hospitals for the past year, the reality is the opposite. He pointed out that during PTI's tenure, free medicines were available in hospitals, and RHCs (Rural Health Centres) and BHUs (Basic Health Units) were upgraded. He questioned where the medicines worth 100 billion rupees meant for the people of Punjab are being distributed. Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar accused Maryam Nawaz of selling 1,132 health units. He also mentioned that nursing staff have been suspended for making TikTok videos. He demanded the government specify which hospitals currently provide free medicines. Highlighting the destruction of the education sector, he stated that 11,000 schools have been sold, leaving government teachers unemployed. He raised questions about the naming of Nawaz Sharif Cancer Hospital, asking why a hospital built on 5,000 kanals of land was named after Maryam Nawaz father. He challenged Maryam Nawaz, asking whether the hospital was built using funds from Ramzan Sugar Mills or money brought from home. If so, he questioned why it was being named after her father? He said if Maryam Nawaz stepped out of her offices and gauged public reaction, she would realize how unpopular she is. He claimed that if she took to the streets now, she would understand her true standing. He accused her of making false allegations regarding the events of May 8 and 9. He stated that the family of PTI's founder, lawyers, and close associates are being denied meetings. Addressing farmers' issues, he said that farmers have been devastated by wheat prices, leaving 13 crore farmers displaced. He also mentioned those trapped in military cases, saying they are being denied the right to appeal and are subjected to difficult ATC (Anti-Terrorism Court) trials. Bhachar asked Maryam Nawaz 'what message she wants to convey to Punjab?' He predicted that when she assumes power, she will prove to be ruthless. Criticizing the 'Gunda Act' (anti-vandalism law), he called it a colonial-era law being reintroduced, promoting a colonial mindset where anyone can be arrested for speaking out. He questioned how the Punjab government could deprive people of their ID cards, passports, or basic human rights. He accused Maryam Nawaz of disrespecting teachers, destroying paramedics and doctors, and now trying to further oppress the people with this law. He said the events of May 9 were falsely linked to India's actions, for which the public must be apologized to. He urged the people of Punjab to free themselves from the 'Form 47 TikToker government.' Criticizing Faisal Kamran SSP, he said that despite being educated, he is mistreating elders. Condemning the mistreatment of Shah Mahmood Qureshi, he said violence is being committed against women. He warned that the greater the oppression, the stronger the response would be. He demanded a polygraph test for Maryam Nawaz, who claims to own no property in Pakistan, let alone Britain. He also called for polygraph tests for both brothers (Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz Sharif), as one claims to have been a labourer while the other says their father was wealthy. He asserted that Imran Khan could emerge victorious because he stands firm for the nation's future. He made it clear that no deal can bring Imran Khan out—only the people's power can. He accused Maryam Nawaz of acting to please her foreign masters and warned that she would face consequences. Earlier, the Punjab Assembly session commenced two hours and 13 minutes behind schedule, with Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan presiding. As soon as the session began, opposition members entered the house chanting slogans and creating an uproar against the government. They raised slogans such as 'Who will save Pakistan?' and 'Founder of PTI.' During the session, government MPA Ahmad Iqbal Shah criticized minister Zeeshan Rafiq, sarcastically suggesting that if he had gone to Sialkot, he should also recite Fatiha for the roads. Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan responded mockingly, 'Zeeshan Rafiq has gone to Sialkot for Fatiha; when he returns, he will again demand answers about the roads.' Government MPA Amjad Ali Javed raised concerns over the agenda, stating, 'The agenda should have been received a day earlier. We were preparing the special education agenda until 2:30 PM.' The Punjab Assembly Speaker replied, 'I had the agenda changed.' Opposition member Mumtaz Chang objected, saying, 'When our questions came after six months, we found out the agenda had been altered.' The Speaker clarified, 'Some important matters had to be included, which is why the agenda was changed.' Government MPA Amjad Ali Javed announced his intention to move an adjournment motion against the Gymkhana Club and Chief Minister's Advisor Babar Aliuddin. He questioned, 'My adjournment motion is not on the agenda. Can we not speak against the Brahmins of the system?' Opposition member Ahmar Bhatti protested against a 26% increase in private school fees during summer vacations. He stated, 'Private schools have raised fees by seven to eight thousand rupees. International schools have increased fees by seven thousand rupees for grades two to three and eight thousand rupees for grades five to six.' He reminded the assembly that, according to a High Court ruling, only half the fees should be charged during summer vacations. Punjab Law Minister Sohaib Bharath said, 'We will look into this matter and also obtain the court's decision.' The Speaker remarked, 26% fee increase is excessive, and directed the matter to the Standing Committee on Schools for further review. During a session of the Punjab Assembly, Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan commended MPA Waqas Maan, calling him a skilled orator. The Speaker remarked, 'You speak so sweetly that one wishes you would keep talking.' He jokingly added, 'You don't even have to look at me—just keep speaking.' Referring to a previous incident, the Speaker quipped, 'Earlier, I got caught telling Hina Pervez to look at me, but now I won't ask Waqas Maan Sahib to do the same.' His humorous comment drew laughter from both treasury and opposition members. Parliamentary Secretary for Sports Ans Mahmood responded to questions regarding the collapsed wall of Shaheen Football Stadium in Toba Tek Singh, stating that a detailed reply would be provided in the next session. Government member Ahmed Iqbal Shah raised concerns in the Assembly about whether Pakistan's football team would participate in FIFA. The Parliamentary Secretary smiled and replied that this had become a fresh point of inquiry. Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan humorously intervened, saying, 'Now I'll roll out the question to you—answer whether the team is going to FIFA or not.' He further remarked, 'In a country where Chaudhry Shujaat heads the Kabaddi Association and Arshad Lodhi led the Football Association, what do we even expect from FIFA?' Hafiz Farhat Javed criticized PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, suggesting that the matter should be handed over to someone else. However, the Punjab Assembly Speaker defended Naqvi, stating, 'Mohsin Naqvi is working to improve cricket.' Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan criticized proposed bills that grant departments the authority to formulate rules, stating he could not allow such a move. He supported the stance of opposition members Aamir Rashid Bhatti and Zulfiqar Shah, asserting that lawmaking powers should not be delegated to bureaucrats. Rana Aftab Ahmad Khan also objected, saying that newly formed authorities were being given legislative powers, which was inappropriate. The Speaker referenced the 1972 Act, stating that if a provincial assembly member is present in any committee meeting, they should chair it. Opposition member Ahmar Rashid Bhatti argued that under the Privileges Act, assembly members should lead sub-committees, but in government-proposed bills, this authority had been wrongly assigned to the Chief Secretary. During the Punjab Assembly session, government member Ghazali Saleem Butt pointed out the lack of quorum, prompting Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan to order the ringing of bells for five minutes to gather members. Following the quorum call, government members walked out of the assembly hall, leading the Speaker to extend the bell-ringing for another five minutes. After a nearly half-hour delay, the session resumed, with the Speaker addressing the opposition, stating that the meeting had been convened at their request and it was their responsibility to ensure quorum. Although only 81 members were present, the Speaker declared quorum without a formal count and proceeded with the session. Meanwhile, the Punjab Assembly introduced a new draft law titled the Centre of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism Punjab 2025. Additionally, Panel of Chairperson Samiullah Khan deferred the Consumer Protection Amendment Punjab 2025 bill and a general discussion motion on law and order until Tuesday. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
26-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Speaker sides with Opposition to block 'Goonda Bill'
Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, cautioned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership on Friday against pursuing a no-confidence motion, warning that more than 20 of its lawmakers might defect if the party insists on proceeding. During the Assembly session, Speaker Khan indirectly advised PTI to reconsider its strategy, hinting at potential fractures within the party's provincial ranks. The session also witnessed rare alignment between Speaker Khan and opposition members in their strong criticism of the proposed Punjab Control of Goonda Bill 2025. The bill, introduced by the Punjab government, seeks to establish new authorities and empower the bureaucracy with significant legislative powers. Opposition legislators accused the government of attempting to suppress the public through "backdoor legal tactics," vowing to resist the bill at every platform. Speaker Khan echoed their concerns, declaring that he would oppose any legislation infringing on public rights or bypassing democratic norms. He even expressed willingness to meet Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in person to urge a review of the bill. In another heated exchange, PTI MPA Ahmer Rasheed Bhatti raised the issue of private school fee hikes during summer vacations. He noted that despite Lahore High Court's directive to charge only half the usual fees, some schools had increased fees by 26%. Speaker Khan expressed serious displeasure over the matter and referred it to the Assembly's standing committee on education. Punjab Law Minister Sohaib Ahmad Malik assured the House that the issue would be thoroughly investigated. Bhatti also criticized the growing trend of delegating lawmaking powers to the bureaucracy, calling it a threat to legislative sovereignty.
Business Recorder
22-05-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Local Bodies Bill: Punjab PA Speaker, govt members express reservations
LAHORE: During the Punjab Assembly session, on Wednesday Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan and government members expressed reservations over the existing Local Bodies Bill. Lawmakers argued that the new Local Government Bill would effectively dismantle grassroots governance. Meanwhile, the assembly approved 14 bills, including the Punjab Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2025. The Punjab Assembly swiftly approved 14 bills in a single session amid the opposition's absence, with the government securing majority votes despite only 50 members being present. Key legislation passed included the Provincial Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Bill 2025 (Bills No. 25, 43, 45), The Drugs (Amendment) Bill 2025, Punjab Workers Welfare Fund (Amendment) Bill 2025*, Companies' Profits (Workers' Participation) (Amendment) Bill 2025, Stamp (Amendment) Bill 2025, Provincial Employees' Social Security (Amendment) Bill 2025, Punjab Arms (Amendment) Bill 2025, Punjab Judicial Academy (Amendment) Bill 2025, Punjab Fertilizer Control Bill 2025, Police Order (Amendment) Bill 2025, and Punjab Financial Advisory Services Bill 2025. In an unusual move, assembly rules were suspended to fast-track the Anti-Terrorism Punjab (Amendment) Bill 2025, which was also passed by majority vote. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mian Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman moved the motion to suspend the rules, citing public interest. The assembly unanimously adopted a resolution condemning the cowardly terrorist attack in Khuzdar, Balochistan. The resolution, presented by Provincial Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Mian Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman, expressed strong condemnation and demanded that the perpetrators be brought to justice. Provincial Information Minister Azma Zahid Bukhari addressed the house, stating that the attack was orchestrated by "the same proxies of India" that recently faced defeat in Pakistan. She emphasized that these proxies, acting on India's orders, continue to carry out cowardly acts in Balochistan and other parts of the country. Bukhari extended condolences on behalf of the Punjab government, Chief Minister Punjab, and the assembly, noting that the victims were children who were simply heading to school for a better future. She revealed that the Punjab Chief Minister had contacted his Balochistan counterpart to offer condolences and assurances of full support. Bukhari asserted that Operation Bunyan-um Marsoos must not end, as it is crucial to eliminating these proxy threats. Meanwhile, a ceremony honouring Field Marshal Asim Munir was cancelled in light of the Khuzdar tragedy. Following the completion of the agenda, the Punjab Assembly session was adjourned indefinitely. Moreover, the house adopted a condemnation resolution on the Khuzdar tragedy, presented by Provincial Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman. Following the completion of the agenda, the Punjab Assembly session was adjourned indefinitely. The Punjab Assembly session commenced one hour and fifty-five minutes late under the chairmanship of Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan. Before the question hour on the Local Government Department, led by Provincial Minister Zeeshan Rafiq, Syed Zulqarnain Ali Shah raised a point of order, stating, "Our brave Pakistan Army has defeated the deceitful Indian forces. Millions sacrificed their lives when Pakistan was created. Yesterday, children were martyred in the Khuzdar terror attack. India is funding traitors to destabilize Pakistan through terrorism. We must unite—Pakistan now needs a strong military more than ever." Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan responded, "Our armed forces have humiliated India, and the entire nation stands with them. The rank of Field Marshal was also conferred as a tribute to their sacrifices." However, following the recent terrorist incident, ceremonies at the Presidency and other official events have been postponed. The Speaker further urged members to actively support the "Suthra Punjab" (Clean Punjab) program, calling it a "revolutionary step by the government." He emphasized, "This initiative marks the first time development has been directed toward rural areas—members must play their role in further improving this project." Responding to a query from Amjad Ali Javed, Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan acknowledged concerns about government vehicles becoming unusable, asking, *Why do vehicles deteriorate completely? Why aren't they auctioned off in time?" Provincial Minister Zeeshan Rafiq clarified that "no new vehicles have been purchased for the Local Government Department since 2008.' The session grew contentious when MPA Ahmad Iqbal raised an objection, stating, "When I visit my constituency, the contractors of the 'Suthra Punjab' (Clean Punjab) program refuse to cooperate. The Assistant Commissioner even claims the contractor isn't working because of me. Am I a sanitary inspector, an administrator, or a lawmaker?" The Speaker intervened, reminding members that *"this House is where you hold ministers accountable." The Provincial Minister for Local Government defended the Suthra Punjab initiative, stating, "The program has just begun. You can ask the government how much has been spent on the planned projects. Resources are now being directed toward rural areas." However, reservations over the new Local Government Bill dominated discussions, with several lawmakers expressing concerns. Speaker Khan openly criticized the bill, stating, "I myself have objections—it seems this bill prioritizes Deputy Commissioners over public representatives." Provincial Minister Zeeshan Rafiq dismissed the criticism, calling it "misguided perception." MPA Ahmad Iqbal countered, "I stand by my claim: this bill will bury local governments."* Rafiq insisted there was "no truth to these allegations." Amjad Ali Javed remarked sarcastically, "Suthra Punjab is closer to our stomachs than our hearts,"* prompting the Speaker to reveal his personal involvement in the cleanliness drive: "During Ramadan, I personally carried brooms, cleaned streets, and broke my fast with sanitation workers." The session highlighted deepening divisions over governance reforms, with the Speaker urging transparency while lawmakers demanded greater accountability in local administration. The opposition's questions were disposed of due to their absence in the house, with the Speaker stating that the opposition benches were empty during an important legislative session. The opposition, led by Opposition Leader Ahmed Khan Bhachhar, is currently present in Islamabad. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
18-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Speaker Punjab PA calls on Türkiye Ambassador
LAHORE: Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, called on the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Pakistan, HE Dr Mehmet Irfan Nezir Oglu, at the Punjab Assembly. During the meeting, both dignitaries held in-depth discussions on bilateral relations, regional developments, economic cooperation, and strengthening parliamentary engagement between the two countries. Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the Turkish people for their resolute expression of solidarity with Pakistan during the recent regional tensions in South Asia. He remarked that President Erdogan's continued support has deeply resonated with the people of Pakistan, while the unwavering support from the Turkish nation in challenging times has added a renewed strength to the fraternal ties between both nations. The Speaker emphasized Pakistan's commitment to further reinforcing its strategic partnership with Türkiye. He highlighted the deeply rooted historical, religious, and cultural bonds shared by both nations, noting their consistent support for each other during times of adversity. Both sides discussed the significance of regular parliamentary exchanges. Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan stressed that enhanced engagement at the parliamentary level, people-to-people connectivity, and robust economic collaboration can further consolidate the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Türkiye. He also invited Turkish investors to take advantage of the promising investment opportunities in Pakistan. Ambassador Irfan Nezir Oglu congratulated the Prime Minister, the Armed Forces of Pakistan, and the entire nation on recent military and diplomatic successes. He noted that the people of Türkiye take pride in Pakistan's achievements and reiterated President Erdogan's strong desire to deepen bilateral relations in all sectors. The Ambassador underscored the importance of sustained institutional cooperation and reciprocal parliamentary exchanges to broaden the scope and depth of mutual ties. The Turkish Ambassador appreciated Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan's pivotal role in establishing the Youth Parliamentarians Forum (YPF) in the Punjab Assembly. He remarked that such platforms are vital for involving the younger generation in national leadership and for promoting democratic values. On this occasion, members of the Assembly, including YPF Board President Amina Hassan, General Secretary Salman Shahid, Sultan Tariq Bajwa, Usama Fazal Rana, Mansoor Azam, Secretary General of the Punjab Assembly Chaudhry Amir Habib, and Principal Secretary to the Speaker Amad Hussain Bhalli, were also present. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Punjab PA calls for national unity
Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan on Friday reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to peace but issued a stern warning that the country would respond forcefully to any act of aggression. He was addressing a ceremony held at the Punjab Assembly to observe Youm-e-Tashakur (Day of Gratitude), commemorating Pakistan's success over India. "Pakistan desires peace and values dialogue," the Speaker said, "but if anyone harbours adventurist intentions, we will leave no stone unturned in our retaliation." He declared that the entire nation stands united in defence of the country's sovereignty. "I thank Almighty Allah, and today the nation's head is held high with pride. We can say with confidence that we will not hesitate to sacrifice our lives for the protection of every inch of Pakistan," he added. Malik Ahmad Khan emphasised that the entire political spectrum in the country is united in support of the armed forces. "Every move made for political gain will be foiled. No one will be allowed to twist the facts, especially if false flag operations like Pulwama or Pahalgam are repeated," he cautioned. Touching upon key geopolitical concerns, the Speaker said Pakistan is ready to discuss matters like the Indus Water Treaty and Article 370-A of the Indian constitution. "It is not surprising if the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty is linked to war. Pakistan has a rightful claim to Sindh's waters, which were not even cut off during times of war," he stated. He further remarked that Pakistan has borne the brunt of terrorism more than most countries, with the loss of over 90,000 lives. "This sacrifice cannot be overlooked or taken lightly," he asserted. Recalling the military confrontation with India, Speaker Khan said Pakistan's swift response, including the downing of six Indian fighter jets, had sent a clear message. "Even today, voices within India question what Prime Minister Modi achieved through that adventure," he noted. "Facial expressions of commandos on both sides and the speeches of both Prime Ministers Shehbaz Sharif and Narendra Modi tell their own story," he said, hinting at a stark contrast in morale and public confidence. The ceremony was attended by cabinet members, members of the provincial assembly, and media representatives. President of the Punjab Assembly Press Gallery, Khawaja Naseer, and Secretary Adnan Sheikh were also present.
