The much-awaited session of the National Assembly (NA) on the no-confidence motion will begin Friday (today) at 11:00 am. According to details, the NA Secretariat released a 15-point agenda which includes the no-confidence motion filed by the Opposition.
“This House is of the view that PM Imran Khan has lost the confidence of the majority of the members of the National Assembly of Pakistan, therefore, he should cease to hold office,” read the agenda.
Pertinent to mention, the Opposition is in an intense political battle to oust PM Khan. On March 8th, the Opposition finally submitted the requisition for the no-confidence motion in the NA Secretariat.
As per Article 54 (3) of the Constitution, the Speaker is bound to summon the session within 14 days of receipt of the requisition. However, the Speaker summoned the NA session on March 20th for March 25th.
Read more: NA speaker in hot waters?
Resolution for vote of no-confidence against Pakistan Prime Minister Imran listed in Pakistan National Assembly's agenda for Friday. Order: pic.twitter.com/CeFBpDzU3h
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) March 24, 2022
Will the decision be taken today?
Today’s NA session will begin at 11:00 am. However, there are high chances that the resolution may not be tabled on the first day due to the death of PTI MNA Khayal Zaman.
On 15th February, PTI MNA and Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Gas and Petroleum Haji Khayal Zaman passed away after losing a years-long battle with cancer. Condolences poured in for the politician. Prime Minister Imran Khan also expressed grief over the death.
“I was especially touched by his commitment and dedication when he attended an NA session for a crucial vote despite being so seriously ill,” PM Khan tweeted.
Saddened to learn of the passing of our MNA Haji Khayal Zaman. I was especially touched by his commitment & dedication when he attended an NA session for a crucial vote despite being so seriously ill. My condolences and prayers go to his family. pic.twitter.com/0NW3epI4gF
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) February 14, 2022
As per parliamentary traditions, the first sitting will adjourn after prayers and tributes for the departed lawmaker. Therefore, the Speaker, soon after Fateha, will adjourn proceedings of the House till Monday, March 28. On the other hand, there are media reports stating that the Opposition will stage a protest if the federal government defers the session.
Read more: MNA’s allowed to vote: Supreme Court Bar
Interestingly, if the Speaker adjourns the proceedings for Monday, then it will be after PTI’s 27th March “historic” rally. Prime Minister Imran Khan earlier, finalized preparations for what he called “the country’s biggest public meeting”.
The Opposition claims that PM Khan will lose the no-confidence motion due to the lack of voters in his favor. Meanwhile, PM Khan claims that he will give a surprise to the Opposition during his 27th March public gathering. There are speculations that PM Khan may have won the favor of Opposition MNAs.