ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Peoples Party staged walkouts from both the Senate and the National Assembly, demanding an apology from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leadership over what it described as “disparaging remarks” against its top figures.
During the Senate session on Monday, PPP Senator Sherry Rehman said the country was facing devastating floods, affecting millions across Sindh and Punjab.
“Instead of strengthening the people in this difficult time, we are weakening them through political rhetoric,” she said. “The war of words between the Punjab and Sindh governments is hurting the federal coalition.”
Rehman criticised what she called the “use of the Punjab card,” saying the red line was being crossed. “Making inappropriate remarks about Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Aseefa Bhutto is unacceptable,” she added.
“Even Punjab has PPP representation. Bilawal merely suggested using the Benazir Income Support Programme to help flood victims. Government alliances cannot survive on the basis of humiliation. An apology does not diminish anyone’s dignity.”
She added that the PPP had always advocated for climate justice, noting that southern Punjab had been devastated by floods and crops destroyed. “I am ashamed to even repeat the words that were used,” she said. “If an apology is not offered to our leadership, we should not be taken for granted.”
Following her remarks, PPP senators tore up copies of the agenda and walked out of the session.
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar expressed regret over the situation, saying, “If anyone’s words have caused hurt, I feel sorry as a political worker. President Zardari is a senior statesman and will play a conciliatory role. The opposition should not rejoice; we will try to bring our friends back.”
The acting Senate chairman directed senators Khalil Tahir Sindhu, Afnanullah Khan, and Anusha Rahman to persuade the PPP members to return to the chamber.
In the National Assembly, the session chaired by Speaker Ayaz Sadiq also saw the PPP staging a walkout.
PPP leader Raja Pervaiz Ashraf sought to speak on a point of order, but the Speaker initially resisted, citing pre-decided rules barring such interventions during question hour. However, upon insistence from both the treasury and opposition benches, Ashraf was allowed to speak.
“We are not here to weaken Pakistan,” Ashraf said. “We are the ones who chant the slogan of ‘Long live Pakistan’. We do not believe in provincial bias. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari did not speak against the Punjab government — irresponsible statements are coming from the ruling party instead.”
The PPP then boycotted the proceedings and walked out, also pointing out a lack of quorum. When the House reconvened, the deputy speaker ordered a headcount, but with the quorum still incomplete, the session was adjourned until Thursday at 11 am.
