PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Assembly session convened for the oath-taking of members on reserved seats was adjourned until July 24 due to an incomplete quorum.
Chaired by Speaker Babar Saleem Swati, the session began with a delay of 2 hours and 24 minutes. Shortly after it commenced, PTI’s Sher Ali Arbab pointed out the lack of quorum, prompting a headcount. Upon confirming insufficient attendance, the Speaker postponed the proceedings.
Law Minister Aftab Alam explained that the PTI parliamentary party had chosen to boycott the session, citing internal dissatisfaction. “Our members are unhappy and decided not to participate in today’s session,” he said.
Originally set to begin at 9 AM, the session aimed to administer the oath to 25 newly elected members on reserved seats—21 women and 4 minorities. Those expected to take oath included 7 women each from JUI-F and PML-N, 4 from PPP, 2 from ANP, and one from PTI-P. Minority representatives included Askar Parvez and Gurpal Singh (JUI-F), Suresh Kumar (PML-N), and Bihari Lala (PPP). Guest attendance had been limited in anticipation of the event.
Speaking to the media earlier, Opposition Leader Dr. Ibadullah said the opposition is prepared for various scenarios if quorum is challenged. “The oath-taking will take place—if not today, then soon—unless PTI obstructs it,” he remarked. He also mentioned that an understanding had been reached between the opposition and government regarding the Senate elections. “If the oath isn’t administered today or tomorrow, we will move to the courts,” he warned.
Dr. Ibadullah emphasized that internal rifts within PTI are not the opposition’s concern and reaffirmed their commitment to the agreed Senate election framework.
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