ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly witnessed a heated confrontation on Tuesday when Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq sharply responded to Leader of the Opposition Mahmood Khan Achakzai’s speech. Sadiq emphasized that no anti-Pakistan, anti-army, or anti-judiciary remarks would be tolerated in the House.
During his address, Sadiq declared, “Even if it means breaching the constitution, I will breach it,” signaling his firm stance against what he termed divisive speeches. He questioned, “Can someone tell me how I violated the constitution?” adding that if any Member of the National Assembly (MNA) preferred Afghanistan over Pakistan, he would not permit such sentiments. Sadiq made it clear that criticizing the armed forces or judiciary would not be acceptable in the assembly.
He asserted that the NA is the platform representing the Pakistani people and vowed to prevent hate speech or any remarks against national institutions. Sadiq warned lawmakers against making statements that could be deemed unacceptable outside Parliament, emphasizing that such comments would not be tolerated within the House.
The Speaker also pointed out that some members had delivered lengthy speeches during the budget debate, exceeding their allotted time, and expressed regret over complaints regarding insufficient speaking time. He cautioned that members who neglect committee work or attendance should not later question parliamentary procedures, as committees are essential for detailed legislative discussion.
While addressing the opposition, Sadiq noted that some opposition members appeared uncertain about their political goals but stressed the importance of unity when it comes to Pakistan’s sovereignty.
In response to these exchanges, opposition members staged a walkout following a fiery speech by Achakzai, who criticized the government on multiple issues. Notably, Achakzai’s speech was not live-streamed on the NA’s official social media channels or broadcast on TV, despite the Speaker lifting restrictions on airing opposition speeches earlier this week.
Later, Achakzai took to X (formerly Twitter), asserting, “We have sworn to defend Pakistan’s Constitution. You have supported anti-democratic forces and trampled the Constitution; through your votes, you have clipped the judiciary’s wings.” He claimed that a portion of his speech in the assembly was censored, which he described as an infringement on free speech.
