Resolution deemed 'worthless' without two-thirds majority, says Fawad Chaudhry

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has dismissed the National Assembly's resolution rejecting the Supreme Court's decision on elections in Punjab as "worthless," claiming that such a move requires a two-thirds majority in both houses of parliament. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, PTI Senior Vice President Fawad Chaudhry said the National Assembly had 372 members, but only 42 signed the resolution, rendering it "ridiculous." Chaudhry also accused federal ministers, who signed a similar proclamation, of violating several articles of the Constitution. The PTI has set in motion a plan to disqualify these ministers and has requested the minutes of the April 5 cabinet meeting.

Chaudhry also accused Maryam Nawaz Sharif, daughter of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, of "laying a trap" for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, claiming that she seeks to have him disqualified, so she can "reclaim the party." Chaudhry suggested that PM Sharif be cautious of the situation, saying that Maryam was "laying a trap" for him.

Meanwhile, former NA Speaker Asad Qaiser has offered to consider a constitutional amendment for adjustments to the election schedule beyond the 90-day requirement. Chaudhry expressed his disagreement with the Supreme Court's decision to take elections to May 14, which is beyond the 90-day limit mandated by the Constitution. He urged the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to consult the Supreme Court for the appointment of new caretaker governments after 90 days.

The PTI has also written to the Cabinet Division Secretary, requesting the list of ministers who signed the proclamation to reject the Supreme Court's order in the April 5 cabinet meeting. The party plans to contact the ECP to disqualify these cabinet members under Article 63-A, alleging they violated Article 2A of the Constitution, which is about the sovereignty of the state.

In an interview with DawnNews, Asad Qaiser emphasised the need for talks between the government and political leaders on the issue of elections. He cautioned the government that flouting the Supreme Court's orders on the Punjab poll date would be unconstitutional and would indicate a government that is only focused on its own interests.