National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq underscored the importance of dialogue and democratic principles during his media talk after the conclusion of the 18th Speakers Conference on Friday.
Reiterating his commitment to facilitating negotiations, he stated, “If someone comes to us for negotiations, we will play a role. Our doors are open, and we will not refuse anyone.”
Sadiq expressed optimism about resolving political tensions, emphasizing that initiating talks would pave the way for progress. He said, “I am sure that the day negotiations begin, the matter will definitely move forward. We will facilitate quietly and recite Ayatul Kursi and Durood Sharif for everyone’s betterment.”
He further said that the day the PTI members came to him, they'd discuss negotiations, adding that they could not force people to come and talk. "For the betterment, we will plead with whomever we have to. The day negotiations begin, a path ahead will start being built."
The speaker also urged the government and opposition to prioritise the formation of a Public Accounts Committee. He declared, “If they fail to do so, I will form the committee myself.”
The speaker noted that their job was to facilitate the parliamentary members, adding that his doors were open for everyone. "Speakers issue production orders and will also get them implemented," he stressed.
Highlighting institutional reforms, Sadiq announced significant changes to the National Assembly Secretariat. “Officers below Grade 20 will not be taken on deputation. The authority of the speaker in recruitments has been abolished, and decisions will now be made by the Finance Committee,” he said.
These measures aim to strengthen the NA Secretariat as an independent institution. On the 18th Speakers Conference, Sadiq thanked participants for their commitment to upholding the Constitution and parliamentary supremacy.
“We will continue to work for the supremacy of parliament and democracy. Difference of opinion is the beauty of democracy,” he remarked. The next conference will be hosted by the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, and AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan will become members of the Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services (PIPS).
Gilani calls for unity and stability
Following the conference, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani, while addressing journalists, echoed the sentiments shared at the Speakers Conference. He lauded the 18th Amendment for promoting national stability and empowering smaller provinces.
“The decisions under this amendment should be implemented for sustained political stability,” he said.
Gilani also stressed the need for an economic pact and acknowledged the relevance of Artificial Intelligence in modern governance. “Difference of opinion is the beauty of democracy, but it should not harm the country,” he added, emphasizing the importance of unity in diversity.
Both leaders called for increased efforts on pressing public issues, including environmental change. Sadiq highlighted the need for a “charter” to ensure that Parliament functions ethically and in alignment with established rules.
