President Arif Alvi’s decision not to call the National Assembly session continues to spark controversy among political factions, with PML-N and PPP leaders cautioning against potential “legal consequences”.
Read: Imran Khan Backs President Alvi’s Delay in National Assembly Convening
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) dismissed President Alvi’s objections to the assembly session’s summons. The president had argued against calling the session due to an incomplete lower house.
The PMO, however, cited the Constitution’s requirement for the first NA session to convene within 21 days post-election, stating the president holds the authority to summon the session before this deadline.
Despite President Alvi’s stance, the National Assembly speaker has scheduled the session for 10 am on February 29, indicating the formation of the new government will proceed.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari criticized President Alvi for “abrogating the Constitution,” planning to file cases against him for dissolving the National Assembly during a no-confidence motion against Imran Khan and for not summoning the session.
Bhutto-Zardari shared his initial election pledge outside the Supreme Court to establish a truth and reconciliation commission and release political prisoners. Despite lacking the mandate, he continues to advocate for these actions.
He emphasized the importance of judiciary and establishment functioning within their constitutional boundaries, suggesting this approach could prevent incidents like those on May 9.
Bhutto-Zardari expressed interest in discussing government formation with the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), noting SIC’s lack of initial outreach to PPP for support.
Acknowledging PTI’s decision to avoid collaboration, Bhutto-Zardari highlighted PPP’s subsequent cooperation with PML-N, pledging to contribute through parliament.
He thanked SIC and PTI for enabling the unopposed election of Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Murad Ali Shah as chief ministers, crediting them for Shehbaz Sharif’s anticipated unanimous election as PM.
Ishaq Dar of PML-N also accused President Alvi of constitutional violation, warning of ensuing legal action. Dar confirmed the caretaker government had legally addressed the president’s objections, urging for the session’s constitutionally mandated convening by Thursday.
Dar noted the Balochistan Assembly’s upcoming elections for chief minister, speaker, and deputy speaker, supported by coalition parties, highlighting ongoing political manoeuvres.
