Islamabad, Pakistan – Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) announced Monday it will boycott sessions of the National assembly, escalating tensions with the government over allegations of unfair treatment towards its elected representatives. the decision, revealed by PTI chairman Barrister Gohar during a press conference in Islamabad, marks a important protest against what the party describes as systematic efforts to silence its voice in parliament.
The boycott stems from PTI’s claims that its lawmakers are being unjustly stripped of their seats and disqualified, hindering their ability to represent their constituents and participate in democratic processes. This action underscores a deepening political crisis, potentially impacting the government’s legislative agenda and further polarizing the already fractured political landscape. The party intends to demonstrate its opposition through protests alongside the boycott.
Gohar stated, “From now on, we will not attend National Assembly sittings. We will protest and boycott instead,” adding that the decision followed a meeting of the PTI parliamentary party at the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) House, where members endorsed instructions from the party founder.
PTI leaders allege restrictions even extend to symbolic acts of national observance. “Even if we try to celebrate Independence Day, we are not allowed,” gohar said. “Despite countless difficulties, we attended sessions to raise demands democratically, but we are not permitted to speak.”
The proclamation came as Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur reported widespread devastation from recent heavy rains across the province, notably in Buner, Shangla, Swabi, and swat. Gandapur stated a flood surge of 12 to 14 feet destroyed homes, and reported 490 deaths in the province so far. He added that the K-P government is providing compensation,including Rs2 million to families of the deceased,Rs1 million for completely destroyed homes,and payments to the injured.
Former speaker Asad Qaiser urged the federal government to increase support for flood victims, appealing to the United Nations for aid and emphasizing the federal government’s responsibility in the relief efforts. He also indicated the party founder would be asked to initiate a fundraising campaign.