LAHORE – Negotiations between the Punjab Assembly government and the Opposition over the fate of 26 suspended MPAs from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) appear to be heading towards a deadlock, as key disagreements remain unresolved after two rounds of talks.
The MPAs were suspended on June 27 following a raucous session during Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s address. Accused of violating assembly decorum through sloganeering, tearing documents, and damaging microphones, they were barred for 15 sittings. In addition, disqualification references under Articles 63(2) and 113 of the Constitution were forwarded to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
In a bid to defuse the crisis, the government formed an eight-member negotiation committee headed by Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan. The committee includes representatives from the ruling coalition and was tasked with engaging the Opposition to reach a resolution before the Senate elections scheduled for July 21.
However, talks have stalled over the government’s insistence on a formal written commitment from the suspended lawmakers. The proposed agreement demands that the Opposition pledge not to disrupt House proceedings, avoid abusive language, refrain from slogan chanting, respect Rule 223 of the Assembly, and adhere to a jointly signed code of conduct.
The PTI lawmakers have largely rejected the demand, terming it an infringement on their parliamentary right to protest. While a few within the party have suggested that a temporary written assurance could help ease tensions and safeguard their voting rights in the upcoming Senate polls, the majority view the requirement as restrictive and unnecessary. They argue that Assembly rules already provide sufficient guidance for member conduct and accountability.
Despite holding two rounds of formal dialogue—one chaired by the Speaker and the other led by the negotiation committee—no breakthrough has been achieved. In the meantime, the Speaker has suspended punitive actions including salary deductions, fines, and disqualification proceedings to allow space for talks to continue.
Opposition leaders, however, now suggest that PTI may not participate in further rounds of dialogue if the demand for written assurances is not dropped. Some reports indicate that the party has already withdrawn from the latest round of discussions, raising concerns that the standoff may intensify.
With the clock ticking ahead of the Senate vote, the Speaker remains hopeful for a resolution. More meetings are expected in the coming days. However, without compromise on the contentious issue of the written agreement, the deadlock is likely to persist—threatening not only legislative harmony but also the effectiveness of the Assembly in carrying out its functions.
The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for the political climate in Punjab, particularly for inter-party cooperation, legislative proceedings, and the conduct of upcoming elections.
