Senate Uproar Over Controversial Verdict
ISLAMABAD: Tensions reached a boiling point in the Senate on Friday as PTI senators erupted into protest following the conviction of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, in the £190 million Al-Qadir Trust case. Led by Senator Shibli Faraz, the uproar brought the House proceedings to a standstill as opposition members congregated in front of the chairman’s dais.
Denouncement of Verdict and Demand for Justice
Chanting slogans such as “We do not accept prewritten decisions,” the opposition lawmakers vehemently denounced what they deemed a “politically motivated verdict” and demanded justice for their incarcerated party leader. During the Question Hour, Senator Shibli Faraz, also the opposition leader in the upper house, sought permission to address the house but was rebuffed by Deputy Chairman Senate Syedaal Khan, who insisted on completing the Question Hour first.
The denial of permission further stoked tensions, prompting PTI senators to tear copies of the session’s agenda in protest. The ensuing disruptions culminated in the deputy chairman adjourning the session until January 20 (Monday).
Revelations of Violent Protests and Accountability
Earlier, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi divulged that three law enforcers lost their lives while 106 sustained injuries during the violent PTI protests in Islamabad from November 24 to 26. Responding in writing to Senator Quratulain Marri, the minister clarified that no civilian casualties or injuries were reported during the protests as per reports from all police stations in the federal capital.
Furthermore, the minister disclosed that 17 criminal cases had been registered against the perpetrators of the violent protests at various police stations across Islamabad. Additionally, the Senate was informed that 27 officers and officials of Pakistan Railways have been held accountable for the tragic Ghotki train accident on June 7, 2021.
In a written response to Senator Shahadat Awan, the railways minister outlined that disciplinary actions have been initiated against the responsible officials following a fact-finding inquiry report by a five-member committee led by the federal government inspector for railways. The inquiry pinpointed a broken rail joint between Daharki and Reti Stations as the cause of the 17-UP Millat Express derailment, attributing the failure to inadequate maintenance by the sectional permanent-way staff.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Senate’s uproar over the controversial verdict and subsequent revelations of violent protests and accountability underscore the tumultuous political landscape in Pakistan. As tensions simmer, the quest for justice and transparency remains at the forefront of public discourse, shaping the future trajectory of the nation’s governance and accountability mechanisms.
