In a session marked by fervent pro-Imran Khan slogans, the newly elected members of the 16th National Assembly were sworn in on Thursday. The proceedings, administered by outgoing NA Speaker Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, began after a delay of more than an hour.
Notable political figures taking their oaths included PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif, former premier Shehbaz Sharif, ex-president Asif Ali Zardari, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, and JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman. Additionally, three Senate members resigned from their positions to join the National Assembly, intensifying the political landscape.
Slogans and Protests Fill the Assembly Hall
Before the session commenced, members of the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) cheered with “Imran Khan zindabad” and “Aayi, aayi PTI” chants. In response, PML-N supporters hailed Nawaz and Shehbaz with “Sher aya” slogans, amidst a backdrop of pro-PTI chants from SIC members.
The atmosphere remained charged even after the oath-taking ceremony, with PML-N members shouting “Ghari-chor” in reference to the Toshakhana case against Imran Khan, while SIC MNAs chanted “Who will save Pakistan? Imran Khan. Imran Khan”.
Statements from Leaders
Addressing the media, PML-N’s Ayaz Sadiq emphasized the need for collaboration between the government and opposition, calling them “wheels of the same car.” He urged for “national reconciliation” and hoped for a constructive debate.
PTI-affiliated MNAs, including Ali Muhammad Khan, reaffirmed their loyalty, with Khan asserting their victory claims and dismissing allegations of rigging.
Upcoming Elections and Alliances
The second day of the Assembly will see elections for the speaker and deputy speaker before noon. The following day, parliamentarians will elect a prime minister, with Shehbaz Sharif competing against PTI-backed Omar Ayub for the position. Ayaz Sadiq will contest the speaker election against PTI-backed Amir Dogar.
A power-sharing deal was struck between PPP and PML-N, with PPP’s Ghulam Mustafa Shah vying for the deputy speaker position.
Political Alliances and Uncertainties
After the Feb 8 polls, a multi-party alliance was formed including PPP, PML-N, MQM-P, Istehkam-i-Pakistan Party, and Balochistan Awami Party. However, Fazlur Rehman’s JUI-F, with four seats, remains a wildcard as he contests election results.
Summoning of the Session
Earlier, President Dr. Arif Alvi’s reluctance to call a session was resolved, with the NA Secretariat eventually summoning the session. The President’s office raised concerns about the tone of the summons from the caretaker prime minister but ultimately agreed to the session.
As the NA convenes with its 266 general seats, attention remains on the unfolding dynamics of this newly sworn-in Assembly, poised to shape Pakistan’s political landscape in the coming days.
