F.P. Report
LAHORE: Legal proceedings have been initiated to de-seat 26 opposition members who were suspended due to disorderly conduct in the Punjab Assembly.
Sources divulged on Tuesday the Speaker’s Office has begun consultations with the Punjab Law Department on the matter. The Punjab Assembly secretariat has confirmed that constitutional and legal grounds for terminating the membership of the suspended lawmakers are under consideration.
The speaker’s office is also reviewing relevant judicial rulings to guide its course of action. Sources indicated that a reference is being made to a verdict delivered by former chief justice of Pakistan Umar Ata Bandial, in the case against Hamza Shehbaz Sharif — a decision grounded in the context of party line violations.
At present, the speaker’s office was appearing to use that ruling as a precedent to potentially pave the way for the disqualification of the 26 members.
According to report, the suspended opposition members were found guilty of serious disruptions, unparliamentary behaviour and violating the sanctity of the House during a recent session.
The speaker’s office was thoroughly examining both constitutional and legal aspects before finalising any action regarding their disqualification.
