ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly experienced a turbulent session on Thursday, marked by a heated clash over quorum, the suspension of a member, and significant legislative developments. Despite disruptions, the House managed to pass key legislation, including the repeal of the Pakistan International Airlines Corporation Act, 2026.
The session began with an immediate quorum call, as MNA Iqbal Afridi repeatedly highlighted the absence of enough members. Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq initially dismissed Afridi’s concerns, remarking, “You can’t raise quorum issues every half hour.” Afridi persisted, banging on his desk and asserting that the session was being run unlawfully and unconstitutionally. In response, the speaker defended his conduct, stating, “Don’t undermine my reputation; none of my sons have sought political asylum abroad.”
Following a count to verify attendance, the speaker confirmed the presence of a quorum and allowed the proceedings to continue. However, Afridi’s relentless protests led to his suspension. A motion moved by MNA Farah Naz was swiftly adopted, resulting in Afridi’s suspension for the duration of the session, along with a ban on allowances. The speaker warned Afridi to leave the House voluntarily, or he would face “physical action,” after which Afridi exited the chamber.
House Suspends Proceedings Due to Quorum Issuesa
Earlier in the day, the session was suspended at the outset after Afridi again pointed out the lack of quorum during the Question Hour. A headcount confirmed insufficient members, prompting the speaker to suspend proceedings until the quorum was restored. Reflecting on past practices, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq reminded members that pointing out quorum during budget debates could lead to reduced speaking time for the concerned party.
A tense water dispute also erupted between MQM legislators and Agha Rafiullah, exchanging heated words over resource allocation.
Legislative Highlights: PIA Privatization and Telecom Reforms
Amidst the chaos, the House passed a crucial bill to repeal the Pakistan International Airlines Corporation Act, 2026. This legislation comes after the successful privatization of PIA through a transparent bidding process, transferring full operational control to private investors. Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif presented the bill, with Advisor to the Prime Minister on Privatisation, Muhammad Ali, explaining that three bidders participated, with the winning consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation Limited and other prominent companies. The deal involves an estimated Rs180 billion in private-sector investment, including divestment proceeds and fresh equity injections.
The privatization agreement safeguards employee rights, ensuring job security for 12 months post-transition, and continues pension payments to retirees, with no changes in service conditions.
Further Reforms: Telecommunication and Law
In addition, the Assembly approved the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-Organisation) (Amendment) Bill, 2025. Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja outlined key amendments aimed at streamlining regulatory procedures within the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), addressing long-standing operational issues, and clarifying legal provisions related to right-of-way charges. The amendments also seek to strengthen the legal framework surrounding the Appellate Tribunal, ensuring regulatory clarity and administrative efficiency.
