MNAs on reserved seats take oath amid SIC protests

Islamabad: The newly sworn-in members of the National Assembly, who secured victory in reserved seats for women and minorities, took their oaths amidst protests from the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) on Friday.

Barrister Gohar Ali, representing SIC, raised a point of order, citing a restraint order issued by the Peshawar High Court (PHC), which prohibits the oath-taking of the newly notified members on reserved seats.

During the oath-taking ceremony, SIC members gathered near the Speaker's podium to express their dissent.

Barrister Gohar Ali argued that members taking the oath would not only defy the court's order but also violate the constitution.

In response, Speaker Ayaz Sadiq clarified that neither the National Assembly nor the Election Commission of Pakistan had received any such order from the Peshawar High Court. He further informed that the Attorney General's opinion indicated that there would be no contempt of court if the elected members on reserved seats take their oaths.

Ayaz Sadiq emphasized that the Peshawar High Court's order is limited to the jurisdiction of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The National Assembly session is adjourned until Wednesday at 2:00 pm.

Meanwhile, the National Assembly adopted a resolution honoring Benazir Bhutto, the first elected Prime Minister in the Islamic world, for her unwavering commitment to democracy, women empowerment, human rights, social justice, and equitable society.

The resolution, moved by Sehar Kamran, hailed Benazir Bhutto as an emblem of women's struggle, courage, and resilience. It pledged to continue her legacy by advocating policies that empower women, ensure equal opportunities, and eliminate gender discrimination.

Acknowledging the significant potential and contributions of women across all sectors, the resolution stressed the need for sustained efforts to remove barriers hindering women's full realization of their potential.