The first session of Pakistan's newly elected National Assembly descended into chaos and protests on Thursday as PTI-backed members of Parliament voiced their discontent. Tensions escalated as lawmakers were denied the opportunity to speak on points of order during the session.
Speaker Raja Pervez Ashraf initiated the session by administering the oath to the parliamentarians. However, unrest brewed when PTI-SIC lawmakers sought permission to address points of order immediately after taking the oath. The speaker refused their request, emphasizing the need for new members to complete registration formalities before speaking on points of order.
Subsequently, PTI-backed parliamentarians congregated near the Speaker's seat, protesting the decision. The speaker attempted to restore order, urging lawmakers to return to their designated seats and maintain decorum.
Amid the uproar, PTI-affiliated members joined forces with the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), chanting slogans in solidarity with imprisoned PTI leader Imran Khan, referred to as 'Prisoner Number 804.' In response, PML-N members countered with chants of 'Ghari Chor.'
Following weeks of political uncertainty post-elections, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) forged an alliance to form a coalition government. As per the agreement, PPP leader Asif Ali Zardari is slated to assume the presidency, while Shahbaz Sharif emerges as the prime ministerial candidate.
With no single party securing a majority in the February 8 elections, the formation of the government was met with initial hesitancy and challenges. However, the coalition between PML-N and PPP aims to navigate the political landscape and usher in stability amidst the ongoing turbulence.
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