A protest by the Pakistan Peoples Party over the issuance of a Special Economic Zone ordinance without presidential endorsement has compelled the federal government to withdraw the legislation, according to local media reports.
The Prime Minister’s Office withdrew the ordinance late Monday after it emerged that the document had been issued without the President of Pakistan’s formal signature. Sources said the President subsequently advised the government to retract the ordinance.
Earlier in the day, PPP lawmakers staged a strong protest and walked out of the National Assembly of Pakistan, condemning the move and questioning its constitutional validity.
For the first time, in 🇵🇰’s black legislative history”, an ordinance — the Special Economic Zone Ordinance — has been promulgated without the approval or signature of the president, which is shameful & against the constitution. PPP MNA @naveedqamarmna pic.twitter.com/6Zu6RJQu0m
— Raza Dharejo PPP (Official) (@RazaDharijo) January 12, 2026Government sources explained that the ordinance was sent to the President’s House along with six other bills and an additional ordinance. While summaries are usually approved through the digital “e-office” system, the physical file for this specific ordinance reportedly returned without the President’s formal signature, even though the digital approval was complete.
The government initially proceeded with the ordinance based on the e-office clearance. However, following the controversy and political backlash, officials said the proposed legislation would now be presented in Parliament as a regular bill rather than issued through an ordinance.
After the withdrawal, the PPP announced it would end its boycott of the National Assembly. Party sources confirmed that PPP lawmakers will attend Tuesday’s session and take part in parliamentary proceedings, including debate and legislation.
