In a dramatic inaugural session of the 16th National Assembly, a total of 302 newly elected members took their oaths amidst an atmosphere charged with both chaos and enthusiasm.
The ceremony, meant to symbolize the commencement of parliamentary proceedings, turned into a display of fervent support for PTI founder Imran Khan and a platform for political statements.
Oath-Taking Amid Ruckus
The session opened with traditional elements—recitation of the Holy Quran and the national anthem. However, the solemnity was quickly overshadowed by the cacophony of slogans, particularly in favor of Imran Khan and the PTI. Pro-Imran slogans echoed through the National Assembly hall, creating a disruptive backdrop to the swearing-in of the newly elected members.
Pro-PTI Slogan Echoes
In the moments preceding the commencement of the session, fervent chants echoed through the air from SIC members, resonating with “Imran Khan zindabad” and “Aayi, aayi PTI [PTI has arrived]”. As Nawaz and Shehbaz made their entrance into the assembly, their party loyalists reciprocated with spirited slogans of “Sher aya [tiger has arrived]”. The atmosphere was charged with pro-PTI fervor, marked by SIC members brandishing posters adorned with images of PTI founder Imran Khan.
A scene unfolded where pro-PTI MNAs and PML-N lawmakers engaged in a vocal exchange of slogans, providing a dynamic backdrop as Nawaz and Shehbaz assumed their seats.
PTI Members Raising Slogans In Support Of Imran Khan During National Assembly Session.#ImranKhan #PTI #Pakistan #PakistanElections pic.twitter.com/FFdMjSEOr6
— The Pakistan Frontier (@PakFrontier) February 29, 2024
Distinguished Presence in National Assembly
Prominent political figures added gravity to the occasion. PML-N stalwarts Nawaz Sharif, Shehbaz Sharif, and Maryam Nawaz were in attendance, alongside PTI leaders like Sardar Latif Khosa, Sher Afzal Marwat, and Shandana Gulzar. The diverse representation underscored the political spectrum at play in the National Assembly.
PTI’s Return Under Sunni Itehad Council (SIC)
This session marked the official return of PTI to parliamentary proceedings, albeit under the banner of the Sunni Itehad Council (SIC). PTI lawmakers, who had previously resigned, seized the opportunity to openly mention Imran Khan’s name and display his photos on television screens—an act previously restricted.
Security for Politicians
In preparation for the inaugural session of the 16th National Assembly, security around the Parliament House was bolstered significantly. Authorities took decisive measures, closing key routes from Serena Chowk, Nadra Chowk, and D-Chowk, effectively restricting unauthorized access to the Red Zone.
A robust security contingent comprising both police and Frontier Constabulary (FC) personnel was strategically deployed on the roads leading to the Parliament House. The increased presence was accompanied by meticulous vehicle checks, aiming to ensure the safety and security of the parliamentary proceedings.
Simultaneously, in response to the National Assembly session, authorities have enforced Section 144 in Islamabad as a precautionary measure. Police officials emphasize that security measures have been elevated to high alert status within the designated high-security zone
Imminent Speaker and Deputy Speaker Elections
Attention now turns to the impending elections for the speaker and deputy speaker of the National Assembly, scheduled for March 1, 2024. The anticipation surrounding these elections adds an extra layer of significance to the inaugural session, promising continued political vibrancy and parliamentary action in the coming days.
What’s Ahead?
The incoming government grapples with formidable challenges, anticipating a surge in militant attacks, energy shortages, and an ailing economy necessitating another bailout from the International Monetary Fund. Lawmakers from Khan’s PTI affirm their commitment to combat alleged election rigging both within and outside the parliament, with Gohar Ali Khan, the current head of PTI, asserting, “Yes, the election has been rigged.” PTI mobilizes with nationwide rallies, claiming manipulated results in multiple constituencies, a contention contested by the Election Commission of Pakistan.
The interplay of political forces, the return of PTI, and the upcoming elections signal a period of heightened political activity in Pakistan’s legislative landscape.
