Fawad questions Shehbaz Sharif’s continuous absence, urges NA to elect new opposition leader

By
Mumtaz Alvi
|
February 22, 2020

Fawad Chaudhry says Shehbaz enjoying privileges of office, clear violation of the Rules of Business of the National Assembly

Federal Minister for Science and Technology Fawad Chaudhry. Photo: File

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Science and Technology Fawad Chaudhry has urged the speaker of the National Assembly to inquire about the exact date of Opposition Leader Shehbaz Sharif’s return to the country or move for the appointment of a new opposition leader "to ensure the smooth running of legislative functions of the house", reportsThe News.

In his letter to Speaker Asad Qaiser, Chaudhry said it was a matter of great concern and that the opposition leader had been conspicuous by his absence for a long time.

"In addition, he has withdrawn from the position of chairman, Public Accounts Committee, which is an important component of the National Assembly,” he noted.

Read also: Fawad Chaudhry taunts Nawaz Sharif on dining out in London

The federal minister further said that despite his non-appearance and his obvious disinterest in the affairs of the House, Shehbaz was enjoying all the privileges entitled to the office of the opposition leader, which was a clear violation of the Rules of Business of the National Assembly and a contravention of democratic norms.

“In view of the above circumstances, Shehbaz Sharif may either be inquired about the confirmed dates of his return to Pakistan or a move for the appointment of a new opposition leader may be expedited forthwith, so that the business of the House may be carried out smoothly, and the legislative functions of the House be performed without any hindrance,” Chaudhry added.

Shehbaz should resign as PAC chairman on moral grounds: Fawad Chaudhry

Shehbaz has been out of the country since November 2019, when he travelled abroad with his brother, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who is being treated for various ailments in London after he was released on bail.



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