As the political crisis prevailing in the country continues unabated, the government and opposition parties in the Assembly are making frantic efforts to negotiate with the protesting PTI and PAT.
The previous day saw fiery speeches from Raza Rabbani who made a stirring call to democratic forces to unite in what he saw as a long battle for the supremacy of Parliament and Ahsan Iqbal who came out with a strong denunciation of PTI and PAT.
And while progress appeared on the talks’ front as the government and PTI traded proposals for electoral reforms, impressions of a deal to end the stalemate were dispelled by party lawmaker Arif Alvi.
Confusion also reigned in the capital after Ahsan Iqbal announced that Chinese president Xi Jinping had ‘cancelled’ his upcoming visit to Pakistan, even before Beijing had made its plans regarding the visit public.
In his latest harangue, PAT chief Dr Tahirul Qadri also lashed out at Parliamentarians saying lawmakers were labeling his “peaceful daughters, sisters and sons” as terrorists.
With the numbers at the Constitution Avenue parade continuing the ebb and flow pattern of the past weeks, a dramatic ruling from the Supreme Court or flexibility from the defiant government and stubborn protesting parties are the only likely options to end the deadlock.
Will PTI and government agree on certain concessions? Will better sense prevail for Dr Qadri, who is calling for an overthrow of the system? What success will the jirga achieve?
Government, PTI talks conclude
Another round of talks between the government and the protesting Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) concluded in the federal capital on Monday.
PTI’s negotiating team included vice president Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Jehangir Tareen whereas the government’s team included Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and Federal Minister for Science and Technology Zahid Hamid. The meeting took place at Tareen's residence.
Following the meeting, government negotiators rushed away without speaking to media representatives.
However, Qureshi told reporters that some progress had been made between the two sides but disagreement still pertained on two core issues. He furthermore told reporters that the conduct of PTI in the negotiations is very much positive, adding that they want to end the deadlock.
He said the PTI had shown demonstrated flexibility in the Islamabad protests and added that they wanted to strengthen democracy, even more than before. Today's meeting came a day after the negotiating teams met yesterday and claimed that “progress had been made” but admitted that there were still certain “core issues” that needed to be resolved.
Speaking to Dawn yesterday, Qureshi had said there were three core issues on which the deadlock between the government and the PTI remained. When asked what these three issues were, Qureshi refused to name them.
We will bring all looted money back to Pakistan, Imran Khan
Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan said that Pakistan did not want corrupt people to rule it. He said that only he could bring the 200 billion dollars of Pakistanis.
Speaking to the protesters at the sit-in today in Islamabad, Imran Khan asked all the segments of the society to join him in Islamabad. He said that ‘Azadi March’ has given employment opportunity to several cart-drivers as they were selling their goods to the protesters.
Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) offered him the post of Deputy Prime Minister in a National Government. He said that he could have become the Prime Minister like Moeen Qureshi or Shaukat Aziz but he was given more respect than most of the prime ministers of Pakistan.
Imran Khan told that PTI member Ishaq Khakwani has filed a case before the court against PM Nawaz Sharif for lying. Imran Khan said that nobody answers the allegations on him in the Parliament.
“In 1995, Nawaz Sharif got a loan of Rs. 6 billion from Al-Taufeeq Bank in London but was never returned. The bank confiscated Nawaz Sharif’s property in Park Lane. But somehow, Nawaz Sharif arranged 8 billion rupees from somewhere and gave it to the bank. When asked where did the money come from, Nawaz Sharif said that an Arab friend sent him this amount”, said Chairman PTI.
Tahirul Qadri threatens to declare war if justice denied
Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) head Allama Tahir ul Qadri threatened to declare a war against rulers if marchers were not provided with justice.
“If we declare a war, whoever comes in front of us will be swept away,” Qadri told his crowd in Islamabad today. “We will continue this struggle for rights even at the cost of our lives,” he said. He warned that if these unarmed protestors became ‘hungry lions’, nobody would be spared from their wrath.
He rejected foreign media reports that people were brought to the sit-in on rent. Not a single person was paid for joining the Inqalab march, he stated.
Qadri said that he was fighting the war in line with the vision of Muhammad Ali Jinnah. He termed the parliament as illegal and fake. “I want to demolish the incumbent system of oppression and replaced it with a genuine democracy.” He said that he wants a new social contract.
Govt, PTI teams meet again
A fresh round of talks between negotiators of government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) was held on Sunday in a bid to find a solution of the existing political impasse.
PTI team comprises of Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Jehangir Tarin while government’s delegation consists of Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and Zahid Hamid. The PTI’s negotiators will respond to government’s document regarding vote fraud and electoral reforms.
Imran Khan to visit flood-hit cities
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan will make a visit to flood-hit cities of Punjab on Monday.
In a press statement, PTI said that Khan will visit Sialkot, Sambrial and Wazirabad towns of Punjab and meet families devastated by floods. The PTI chief will return to Islamabad to join the dharna on 5pm.
Addressing the participants of Azadi dharna, Khan said that he would make more revelations on 9:30pm. “We are witnessing the making of a new nation for the first time in the history of country,” he said. “Mr Prime Minister, nation will not bow before you.” Khan said that nation is prepared to confront the tyrant rulers.
PTI, jirga meeting begins
PTI delegates and the opposition jirga has begun their meeting at the residence of PPP leader Rehman Malik in Islamabad. Former interior minister Rehman Malik said it was regretful that Chinese President Xi Jinping had cancelled his trip to Pakistan. He said talks had resumed between the government and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf through a jirga.
Imran pays homage to passion of marchers in rain
Imran Khan paid homage to passion of the protesters for keep standing even in heavy rains in Islamabad. He lashed out at parliamentarians specifically Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Mehmood Khan Achakzai who he claimed have been ‘posing’ as democrats in the National Assembly. The PTI chairman reiterates his stance of staying at the sit-in till Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif resigns.
Session adjourned
The joint session of the Parliament has come to an end for today and will resume at 5 pm on Monday.
Is Nisar calling Iftikhar Chaudhry and Nawaz Sharif land mafia?
A visibly upset Aitzaz asks on the floor of the House: "Iftikhar Chaudhry and Nawaz Sharif were my clients, is Nisar calling them land mafia?"
"It is the government's job to remain soft...did Asif Zardari have any less differences with you?...these are not debates of the student union that when Shah Mehmood Qureshi starts talking, the ministers start mumbling."
"And I assure you that if I want I will walk out of this House my brothers will leave this House too to accompany me."
"I was the only politician to oppose all four military dictators...my wife who does her LPG business and she pays more taxes than any of these ministers."
Joint session called after opposition approached PM: Aitzaz
Aitzaz Ahsan says the joint session of Parliament was called after the opposition approached Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.
"The joint session was called only after the opposition approached the prime minister...and when the Parliament stood behind you Honourable PM, the body language of your ministers changed...the fears that I was expressing...yesterday in your presence, your interior minister addressed me in a threatening manner and said he would respond to us for our criticism in Parliament."
"My wife does LPG business...what quote is the minister talking about?...Does he not know that in 2000, LPG was deregulated."
Pointing to Chaudhry Nisar, Aitzaz says: "Look at him, he's giving me eyes. He should know that the government is not doing anyone a favour by "absorbing criticism"."
Aitzaz Ahsan responds to allegations
Addressing the house, Senator Aitzaz Ahsan said he was thankful to PM Nawaz for expressing his sympathies.
"I'm thankful to the Honourable PM that he has expressed his sympathies to me and has even apologised over the words that had been used against me by a minister of his cabinet."
"I stand here and I have been accorded respect by the party of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto."
"The allegations levelled against me were pathetic...I had in my previous speech also urged the Honourable PM to reassess those who surround him...whether they are loyal to him."
"I struggled for democracy through the eras of different dictators...I rejected offers of employment from the governments of dictators...but I rejected these every time...I was jailed, so was my wife during the Zia era..."
"And to clarify, I didn't call off the long march over any order from Kayani. I called it off after the prime minister reinstated the judges following which I consulted with Munir Malik and other lawyers and then called off the march."
A stern-looking Aitzaz Ahsan addresses the prime minister and responds to the allegations levelled against him by Chaudhry Nisar.
"I refused to go before Iftikhar Chaudhry after his reinstatement...if I wanted to do business through my politics or my connections, I had many avenues to accomplish that end but I didn't, I didn't want to."
"I will also reply to the allegations of land mafia...I have been urging the Honourable PM to look at the people around him."
"Mian sahab, for how long will you apologise on behalf of those who have already abandoned you," Ahsan questioned.
PM tries to woo back opposition after Nisar’s comments
In his address to the House, the prime minister repeatedly used the term “unfortunate event” for Chaudhry Nisar’s comments in which he had criticised Aitzaz Ahsan on Thursday night.
PM Nawaz apologised to Aitzaz and said that it was important for all political parties to keep their differences aside “for the sake of democracy, Constitution and to uphold the rule of law”.
Much of Nawaz’s speech was aimed at thanking the opposition in the National Assembly for showing support to government during the current political crisis and hoped that despite Nisar’s comments, “the opposition will continue on their path” of supporting the government.
I do not care for power, says Nawaz
"Honourable Speaker, this is a very unfortunate incident that happened last night and when I found about, I was very upset. Before that as well, when we were meeting with opposition parties, a small skirmish took place and some of the lawmakers tried to resolve the matter and I am thankful to them."
"What happened last night has upset me...obviously opposition parties have complaints and air them...no matter how many complaints we have with one another, governments and oppositions, whenever a situation like this arises, we should ensure that we stick together and support one another."
"There should be no compromise over that unity...over the supremacy of Constitution, democracy and rule of law...all parties should set that example."
"As a Pakistani, as a parliamentarian, I feel proud that the parliament has agreed to unite on this path of democracy and constitutionalism."
"It was the opposition which urged me not to resign...I do not care for power...being the prime minister of Pakistan, governing Pakistan is not asy."
"And even though we are talking to the opposition, if you look at the issues of those parties (PTI, PAT), you will wonder if these are the issues of Pakistan."
"I spoke to Khursheed Shah last night and I apologised to him, I also spoke to Aitzaz Ahsan and apologised over the things that were said."
"And now again I offer my sincerest apologies to leader of the opposition and to Aitzaz Ahsan...Ahsan has been my friend and we were struggling together during the lawyers' movement."
"And I assure you that if it was the PPP's government instead of PML-N's and we were in the opposition, we would have stuck by the PPP."
"Even when Tahirul Qadri came to Pakistan the last time when PPP was in power, we stood by the PPP."
Shah's criticism is well-meaning and should be taken as such: Zafar ul Haq
Speaking to the House on Friday, Senator Raja Zafarul Haq said that Khursheed Shah's criticism is well-meaning and should be taken as such.
"The opposition leader's criticism is well-meaning. This should be the role of the opposition which it fulfilled. Not only do we appreciate this role but will also not take to heart if they have spoken any strong words in the process."
"Opposition has fulfilled its role which has for the first time turned this House into a strong voice."
"All lawmakers have played a very commendable role in this crisis. Maulana Fazl not only met Mian sahab, he also met with Asif Zardari and tried to resolve the situation."
"After all the things Shah sahab has said, we don't need to further deliberate on what happened yesterday and move on to resolving the crisis and be united."
PM's weakness will be weakness of democracy, Parliament: Khursheed Shah
"This is not Aitzaz's issue...this is the issue of the opposition...everyone is upset over the tirade launched against Aitzaz."
"One man has put this House in a quandary, why? The purpose of this joint session was to stand by the people of this country, by democracy; what are people to think now? That man has strengthened those who want to take away the right of the people from having their own government."
"That man is breathed life into the dying forces which were trying to oust you."
"He must be wondering why the opposition didn't boycott today's session? Mian sahab you have been worried since yesterday...should we have not come and worried you further? You have a snake in your ranks Mian sahab."
"And we vehemently condemn all the allegations levelled against our leadership."
That man is breathed life into the dying forces which were trying to oust you.
He must be wondering why the opposition didn't boycott today's session? Mian sahab you have been worried since yesterday...should we have not come and worried you further? You have a snake in your ranks Mian sahab.
And we vehemently condemn all the allegations levelled against our leadership.
Ending my speech, I'll request leader of the House, PM, to ensure that those in his ranks respect lawmakers.
PM's weakness would be the weakness of democracy and Parliament.
Our willingness to stand by govt shouldn't be viewed as weakness: Khursheed Shah
"Aitzaz Ahsan has been urging the PM not to resign...the entire opposition has urged the prime minister to stay put...his resignation will be the resignation of democracy."
"We have been standing by the government through and through so it is hard to understand why all of sudden the opposition leader was subjected to ridicule."
"Honourable Speaker, did you hear the statement against Aitzaz Ahsan?"
Aitzaz Ahsan stood by Nawaz Sharif in times of trouble. Whether he's a professional or a businessman...you can tell.
"Nothing has been left by the latest statements against Aitzaz for us, for the Peoples Party...we came to stand by the government and put behind the aspirations of our workers so nothing we do can lead to the downfall of democracy in the country."
Nothing has been left by the latest statements against Aitzaz for us, for the Peoples Party...we came to stand by the government and put behind the aspirations of our workers so nothing we do can lead to the downfall of democracy in the country.
All day we talk to our brothers in the PML-N on how to ensure the government is not ousted by undemocratic forces and out of nowhere your minister suddenly appears with these preposterous allegations against Aitzaz.
You need to assess the people in your ranks...there are those in your ranks who are not loyal to you Mian sahab.
That minister cannot directly attack the PM, Honourable Speaker...you are being weakened and someone is trying to cut off your limbs.
These statements targeting me and later Aitzaz are deliberate attempts at weakening you...to weaken democracy...to weaken the strength that this Parliament has acquired in the past few days.
Kings have been killed, Honourable Speaker...Mir Jafars and Mir Sadiqs have emerged...we all know how that works.
"He didn't even have the decency that the opposition was sitting in the PM's chamber with him and there too he [Nisar] misbehaved...but he couldn't handle and then called 10-11 journalists and spilled poison to an unbelievable extent."
"He is not of your party Honourable Prime Minister! He is not!...people talks of puppet masters but how to deal with those who want to conspire against the system themselves! No puppet master is needed for that."
Without naming Nisar, Shah says the minister had made up his mind yesterday only and went and sat in a corner during Thursday's session.
"Honourable PM, you will have to make a decision...you will have to call that minister and he needs to come to the House and apologise." "Our willingness to stand by the government should not be viewed as our weakness Honourable PM."
Nawaz meets Fazl
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Friday met with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman.
During the meeting, the two deliberated upon the political situation of the country.
Govt, PTI trade proposals for electoral reforms
The dreaded ‘D’ word was back on Thursday evening when a key member of the PTI negotiating team dispelled an impression that the party was about to seal a deal with the government and end the political stalemate.
“The two sides have only agreed broadly to our proposal of electoral reforms and establishing a judicial commission. There is no further progress on the rest of our demands,” Dr Arif Alvi.
He made these remarks after the working paper prepared by his party had been made public.
A quick read of the eight-page working paper makes it clear that finding the much hoped middle ground will not be easy.
Qadri lashes out at Ministers for terming "peaceful" protesters as "terrorists"
Speaking to protesters in heavy rain at Shahrah-e-Dastoor in Islamabad, PAT chief Dr Tahirul Qadri lashed out at the Parliamentarians saying peaceful daughters, sisters and sons are being labelled as terrorists.
COAS meets CM Shahbaz
The Chief of Army Staff General Raheel met with Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif at Army House in Rawalpindi. The two discussed the political situation, with Tariq Fatemi also in attendance.
Any decision taken by political 'jirga' will be accepted: PM Nawaz
After the joint parliamentary session today, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was briefed in his chambers by the government committee.
PM Nawaz Sharif has said that any decision taken by the political ‘jirga’ will be accepted by him.
Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan said that it has been made clear that the government has no issues in accepting five out of six demands put forward by the PTI, adding that the PM resignation will not be negotiated upon.
Nisar also briefed the PM that both the protesting parties have assured the government that they will move their sit-ins away from in front of the Parliament House.
The government is expected to respond PTI by tonight.
Zardari meets Shujaat, Elahi for lunch; political deadlock discussed
PPP co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari met with Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain and Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi at Zardari House in Islamabad.
The Chaudhries had been invited for lunch during which Zardari urged Chaudhry Shujaat to convince Tahirul Qadri to show some flexibility.
PPP leaders Sherry Rehman and Nayyar Bokhari were also in attendance.
Iqbal suggests severe punishment for protestors
Ahsan Iqbal, a senior government minister, Thursday called for severe punishment for those who assaulted the parliament and turned it into a ‘dhobhi ghat.’
Speaking at joint session of the parliament, Iqbal suggested to the speaker that a special committee be formed to investigate assault on the parliament and the protestors should be given exemplary punishment so that nobody in future could dare attacking the parliament.
He said that premises of the parliament should be immediately vacated; these protestors have badly damaged image of the country internationally.
“They are the greatest enemy of the state,” he asserted.
Iqbal also criticized Imran Khan and Dr Tahirul Qadri for using harsh and abusive language against leader of the house and leader of the opposition.
He said unity and solidarity of the nation and the parliament thwarted attempts to derail democracy, adding Pakistani people have exposed the conspiracy.
“Common Pakistanis have rejected these sit-ins,” he asserted.
Rabbani critical of Imran, Qadri messages to supporters
PPP Senator Raza Rabbani opens his speech by calling the government's attention to the heavy rainfall in Punjab which has resulted in several deaths.
"Honourable speaker, today as I stand in this august House, I cannot decide where to begin my recommendations from but I understand that I will start from a point which is the true spirit/objective of this Parliament."
"And that is that last night and the night before, the situation of a flood is becoming apparent in Punjab province. And so far, media has reported that some 12 people have died in these rains. But unfortunately, it seems like the Punjab government isn't prepared to deal with this situation," says Rabbani.
"I will request the PM — that these issues which are that of Pakistan’s ruling elite — he should direct the Punjab government to deal with those issues."
The legislator moves to the current political crisis. "Honourable speaker, I cannot completely agree that with what people here said yesterday that the Parliament was victorious."
"We should bear in mind that it was the first battle and a nominal victory perhaps but the war hasn't ended. If democratic forces are thinking that it was the first and last attack on the Parliament then they are mistaken."
"This is a war for power-- for control of the state."
The PPP Senator says this is the first instance where all Parliamentarians are standing together. "If you look at the country's history, it is the first time that the opposition, all democratic forces, lawyers, bar associations and media are standing together and saying they will not allow anyone to trample on the Constitution."
"We must bear in mind that in the future, measures will be adopted by certain forces to erode the unity that has emerged among democratic forces."
"We had said earlier and we will say it again that once you will alienate the Parliament...if you won't come to NA and Senate and when your ministers won't come to NA and Senate...when the government won't be accountable to the House...then conspiracies like this will take root," says Raza Rabbani.
"Please recall that the last time the PML-N govt was ousted, it happened when the government had alienated the parliament... only a united parliament can fight these attacks off."
Raza Rabbani continues, cautioning the government against rolling back on the devolving measures pushed forward with the 18th Amendment. "These will have consequences which will cancel the dividends."
"The centrist mindset is the problem -- which smacks of dictatorial behaviour, regardless of what form of government we have."
The Senator says the political crisis could have been avoided. "Honourable Speaker, the situation that has become so… if it was handled politically, through Parliament, from the start then what is happening outside may not have come to this point."
"But we also need to keep in mind that the Constitution protects itself..after the 18th Amendment, some clauses have come in that makes it difficult for these dark forces to launch a direct attack on the Parliament."
"If 58(2)(b) would have been in place now, then the government would have been packed up and sent home long ago, but because this could no longer be done, these forces have brought out their puppets on to the streets."
"We said rigging was done but we accepted the result for the sake of democracy," says Raza Rabbani, now addressing the protesting PTI that is encamped at Constitution Avenue.
"First you wanted four seats reopened but then you went on to call for the dismantling of the system. Even after ZAB's judicial murder, we said we will remain within the system...our victories were taken away from us...we said we'd remain within the system...Benazir was murdered in the streets of Rawalpindi...we said we'll remain within the system...Pakistan khappay, khappay, khappay!"
"Despite everything, we never called for the dismantling of the system and this is politics." The PPP Senator is dismissive of the ongoing protests. "What is happening outside does not look like a revolution. It's a situation where the haves are saying we have not. Where are the labourers, the farmers, the artists?" he asks.
"Much is being said about changes in electoral laws. I am not ready to prepare these talks and arguments, because the laws are there, the Constitution exists."
"Until the stakeholders within the state, the ruling elite will not manage their tiffs, no matter what laws you bring in, the results will be the same as they want."
"Finding a way through this bigger crisis will take time," says the PPP Senator, "but it is great that the parliament recognised the challenge, picked up the gauntlet and began the twilight struggle to free itself of its ruling elite."
Hitting out at the PAT chief, Rabbani says: "Qadri cannot even become a parliamentarian in Pakistan with his oath to the queen of England."
"He [Qadri] says he doesn't believe in the system. He calls for a revolution? What revolution? The inqilab we know has farmers and labourers in its vanguard, artists, students and teachers."
"Yesterday they directed their canons towards PPP," he says, referring to Dr Qadri's biting criticism of PPP leader Khursheed Shah, whom the firebrand cleric had threatened to silence.
"Many canons have been fired on PPP. We are used to this and have always stood in impossible circumstances," says Rabbani.
"I wouldn't have reacted if they had only gone after Shah sahab but they went after ZAB who was the architect of the Constitution of Pakistan. Bhutto who stood against the establishment, who laid the foundation of the nuclear program of Pakistan."
"We dont want to sour the mood because negotiations are underway but they need to understand that PPP's jiyalas know how to tackle those who attack our leaders."
Rabbani adds, "In fact, Qadri was amgry at SMQ but he took it out on Khursheed Shah. Because Shah Mehmood Qureshi said Qadri and his people were fundamentally calling for the march to Parliament and PM House."
"Pick up history books and see the kind of speeches that were made before Babri Mosque was demolished," he says, referring to the protesting PAT and PTI leaders' messages of peace and the ensuing violence. "And later they said they didn't call for anyone to attack the mosque. This is what these leaders were trying to do."
He continues. "The message is loud an clear to all democratic forces: that this is what can be done. that we can do whatever we want. the message was to desecrate the precincts of Parliament. if that is the message then we accept that and every 442 or 443 house members are ready to lay down their lives but will not allow the desecration of Parliament."
"Let's also assess ourselves for a bit now."
"I'm not talking about the government but about the political class, " he says. "These conditions, this paradigm, this new narrative — why is it being given? We're at a critical juncture of history, Mr Speaker, if we put our heads down like an ostrich then we won't be ready for the battle that is yet to come... that will determine whether the waterloo is of parliament or of pakistan's ruling elite so let's do some soul searching..."
He adds, "We as the political class have not been able to deliver. If we were delivering and effectively functioning, conditions wouldn't have happened."
"f we were delivering as we should, every single citizen of Pakistan would have actively repulsed this attack on Parliament. But now they are dissociated and do not seem to care."
"When our ministers go and meet COAS in GHQ, we concede political space, " Raza Rabbani says, "When we enforce Article 245, we concede political space; when we call them for facilitate we concede political space. today the balance of power unfortunately does not rest in Islamabad but in Rawalpindi."
Senator Raza Rabbani says it is good that the government has agreed to the five points of the protesting parties, as reported in newspapers. "A commission will determine the state of the elections and parliament will be a guarantor to ensure that the findings of the commission are followed through and action is taken against rigging is proven," he says.
He lays out 14 points of his own: "Dictatorship in all its forms and manifestations, externally managed derailments, crises are anti-thetical to democracy and will not be allowed to take place."
He lists them as:
1) charter of democracy needs to be revisited
2) to reaffirm the commitment of process of federalism and devolution under 1973 constitution
3) supremacy of Parliament shall be ensured as per 1973 const. all issued of national concern shall fall within its larger parameters to redefine civil-military relations
4) to shun adhocism and develop systems for good governance
5) to ensure independence of judiciary
7) to develop national consensus against intolerance, extremism, tolerance in all forms and manifestations
8) to work for protections and rights of minorities, women and children
9) to protect economic pol. rights of working class
10) to ensure implementation of articles 25a
12) to promote regional cultures
13) to ensure freedom of press to safeguard rights of working journalists
Imran was our hero: Haji Adeel
ANP Senator Haji Adeel, holding a copy of the Constitution of Pakistan in his hand, says, "It's a misfortune that we now have to enter Parliament through backdoors, through entrances we have never seen."
"The other day when I went to PM House, we couldn't take the normal route...it reminded me of Bahadur Shah Zafar who only reigned inside his palace but outside it was the rule of all and sundry."
"What is the reason? We go out and see the police everywhere who have no control over the crowd...I do not understand what's happening...there was one Sikander who was controlling Islamabad," Haji Adeel says, referring to the lone gunman who had held the capital hostage last year.
""It's fine to talk and negotiate...then we see these terrorists who storm PTV HQ, enter government buildings...they all get together, have lunches, dinners."
"Why do have these containers everywhere? They are only causing hindrance to the people who cannot go about their business...government should not punish ordinary people, it should hold the disruptive elements accountable."
"We are with the PM for the sake of democracy...but we don't see him, we do not see his authority," says Haji Adeel, as Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif listens silently.
The Senator says PAT Chief Dr Tahirul Qadri should provide the details of the 30,000 people he claims have been taken into custody by the government. "All those people that Qadri says government has detained...he should give the names and addresses of those men...I will personally request the government to release them."
"I do not even know if anyone is clear about the identities of deceased PAT workers." The ANP Senator talks about the PTI chairman, saying "Imran Khan was our hero at one point, we were with him when he began working on Shaukat Khanum Hospital...when he was doing good work, everyone was cooperating."
He then deviates to the issue of dynastic politics. "Given how politics has gone on in South Asia with family and dynastic politics and the damage it has done, we must understand that the system needs changing."
He also stresses on the need for accountability: "A system of accountability be brought into place which can hold all those accountable who are using their power to be and live beyond their means — be they politicians, judges, military leaders."
"The issue between Imran and Nawaz seems more personal than political. We had complaints with the PM but his arrival in the House has cleared that out."
"We are asking the Nawaz government to help the people of KP, regardless of who is in government there; to help us with the power and electricity problems."
Adeel begins to talk about "rebels" — starting from the rousing welcome given to Javed Hashmi, he invoked the reference of Bacha Khan and said those doing the politics of containers were no rebels. Ayaz Sadiq looks on — fascinated.
"Rebels aren't only those who switch parties. Those who stay within their parties and speak their minds are the real rebels."
"We need to struggle/jihad against corruption in the country which cannot be done from air conditioned rooms." "Once the people of this country actually stand up...the clerks... peechay loug hongay agay guillotine."
Go from mogul to Mandela mindset: Mushahid Hussain
"Honourable Speaker, it was good that we had the PTI MNAs come in and speak in the House...it was important to show magnanimity at the time and I am glad you did that," Mushahid says.
"I would go so far as to say that do not accept their resignations...they are part of the system."
"Parliament should do its job right...it will be able to take charge of critical policy arenas," he says.
PML-Q Senator Mushahid Hussain says a large majority of Pakistan's population comprises young people, who need more than "just laptops" and want "tabdeeli" (change).
"The youth want more than just laptops...they are aware of their rights, of politics...they are impatient, angry and want a better future," he says,
"Another reality is that Pakistan has multiple power centres now. We have a very strong independent media which is playing a role and sometimes a very political role."
The Senator lauds the judiciary and role of the civil society. "We have a truly independent judiciary now for the first time in Pakistan and they are not under the control of GHQ."
"We have a vibrant civil society."
"Another reality, Honourable Speaker is that Pakistan is confronting several challenges and these can only be confronted if we work together."
"Ball is in the PM's court because it's a one man show. From the mughal ruler to Mandela, the PM will have to act in that manner."
Citing examples of changing political trends in neighbouring India and Turkey, Hussain says, "The examples we have in front of us are Narendra Modi who was a tea seller. Erdogan took on the reins of Turkey despite the opposition of their country's military establishment."
"We need to change our style of governance and not be divisive but inclusive."
"I will now come to civil-military relations," says Mushahid Hussain. "Appointing Raheel Sharif was a wise decision and he took the terrorists head on...nobody wants confrontation with India. The army is subordinate of the government. The PM is their boss and PM should deal with the army in a professional manner."
About the COAS, Hussain says "He is not only a fighting general, but a thinking general — which is rare." He relates an anecdote, "One of my friends, a former terrorist, called me and said: 'Shah sahab what is going on... we were tribal I thought, but the politicians are behaving in a tribal manner'."
At the end, he says the Parliament should not be a debating society and talking shop. "We need to get to delivering and performing...no military coup is coming."
Imran Khan is not a politician but a bowler: Sajid Mir
"Imran Khan is not a politician, he is basically a bowler...he is bowling bouncers and no-balls," Sajid Mir says.
"Politics is not a game of cricket," Mir says, ridiculing Imran. "We want shariat but we don't want enforced shariat...we didn't even accept the forced shariat of Sufi Mohammad; how did Imran and Qadri think we would allow them to do anything they want?," Mir says.
"Will we have to deal with Imran and Qadri the way we dealt with the Taliban?"
"I demand the government to bring back Pakistan and Islamabad to normalcy," Mir says.
"Naya Pakistan has already been made...and can only be improved if civilian governments are allowed to function," he says. Mir criticises media for not showing "empty chairs in front of Imran Khan's podium".
PTI, govt meeting ends
The meeting between the government committee and Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf has concluded. The government committee — Ishaq Dar, Zahid Hamid and Chaudhry Shafi (a sugar industrialist who is a relative of the PM) — and PTI team comprising Asad Umar, Jahagir Tareen and Shah Mehmood Qureshi left without speaking to reporters.
The meeting lasted nearly 45 minutes.
Imran Khan takes the podium
"All my life long training… it seems god was preparing me for this fight," Imran says, as his party members engage in dialogue with the government negotiating committee.
"When I used to go to the smaller areas of Mianwali and in villages, I saw people living in miserable conditions. Pakistan has the highest incidents of children deaths from drinking dirty water." "500 people are bleeding the country dry... they wear different garbs. One pretends to be a maulana, the other poses to be secular." He harks back to the reasons behind why he took to the streets.
Bats, balls and see-saws for children
Qadri appeals for swings, slides, see-saws and toys for children present at the dharna. "Send school books, rhyme books, colour pencils, drawingbooks... so these children are engaged.
He also urges his members to send bats and balls. "I will play with you myself," says Qadri, much to the delight of his supporters. "Mattresses, beds must be provided and they will only be removed when these people are cleared out."
Qadri also asks for toffees, biscuits, chocolate, milk for young children, along with medicines for cough and cold. He mentions Hydralin cough syrup for children. 'We are here you must go', chants ring at Qadri protest site. He calls for a revolution and freedom cricket match.
Qadri shows picture of Attack on Supreme Court in late 90s, lashes out at Nawaz and PML-N. "You are the initiators of attacks on state institutions," Qadri tells PMLN
Opposition 'jirga' sees ray of hope after PTI meeting
Speaking to reporters after meeting the PTI, Rehman Malik said, “Love produces love...Today, PTI showed maturity and didn't say anything negative." "I request the PM’s team not to talk about any individual. We have also requested the PAT committee to resolve the issue through dialogue."
Rehman Malik lauded the role of the opposition 'jirga' played a vital role in ending the deadlock. "Everyone wants a peaceful solution. I believe that in the next 24 yo 48 hours, things will normalise. The perception that politicians have completely failed, I don’t think so this is true. It is the [who are] politicians trying for a long time for solutions to end the ongoing crisis."
'Nawaz is Sharif in more than name' says shah
Opposition Leader Khurshid Shah speaks on the floor of the House:
"We feel today that Parliament has won".
"Honourable speaker, we will agree with whatever you decide. The decision you took today to let Shah Mehmood Qureshi speak was in light of the Constitution and democracy. Yesterday we welcomed Javed Hashmi, Maulana sahab, we should not have double standards."
"Maulana sahab why didn't you object to Javed Hashmi's arrival and speech in the House."
It's a victory of the House that a leader of the PTI came and said that his party is not involved in an underhanded conspiracy against Parliament. -that it is the PAT which appears to be involved in shady dealings...it is clear that PTI is now against PAT."
"Tahirul Qadri does not accept the Constitution, doesn't accept democracy. PAT is not a political party. It has nefarious designs."
Opposition Leader Khurshid Shah says:
"Nawaz is truly Sharif in more than name"."I am grateful that the prime minister agreed to call the joint session on my advice. Parliament had to battle it out which it did by passing the joint resolution that the prime minister will not resign."
The session adjourns till 11am, Thursday.
'Did Shah Mehmood Qureshi have the right to speak? Fazlur Rehman
"The unity that the House exhibited today is commendable and nothing should come between us."
"Shah Mehmood Qureshi was saying that he wants to resolve the impasse...the question is not whether he said the right things or not, but whether he had the right to speak in the House today."
"We want the honourable speaker to clarify the doubts that have emerged regarding the arrival of PTI members to the House. Was it legal? Did they come in and submit their resignations themselves?"
"Parties resign from the House to shake Parliament but the conspiracy has been exposed."
'Constitution has been violated'
Sahibzada Tariqullah speaks on the floor of the House.
"This Parliament is our mother. If anyone humiliates Parliament, that person is our enemy, an enemy of the people. All those sitting outside are violators of the Constitution. We had advised the government not to let PTI and PAT come to Islamabad from Lahore."
"The whole House is united today that the prime minister should not resign. Today 20-25k are here , tomorrow some others will come and ask for the resignation of another prime minister?"
Nawaz is not the PM of N-league: Bangash
ANP lawmaker Abdul Nabi Bangash addresses NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, "Honourable speaker you should have asked the PTI MNA whether he stood by his resignation or wanted to take it back?"
"If he takes it back, we should allow it. And we should allow him to Parliament."
"Imran and Qadri are two sides of the same coin and we saw the drop scene of this film last evening when the two got together."
Bangash continue, "I do not agree with the PML-N's style of governance...he is the elected prime minister of Pakistan, not of PML-N but of the House, the country."
He criticises PTI chairman Imran Khan. "We spent years in jail when Imran left his workers in the open air and went to Bani Gala to have a good time."
He urges the government to make clear whether it invoked Article 245 to deal with the situation or whether it felt pressure.
Bangash laments that those who stormed the building of PTV "were patted on the back" and asked to leave.
"No one was arrested. It is being said that a soft coup has already happened."
"What kind of situation is this that we have to come to the House from backdoors while these riffraffs camp outside Parliament," he asks.
"Government must explain...a government can only with respect, without respect, governments cannot function."
Altaf asks MQM lawmakers to submit resignations
Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain Wednesday gave a week’s deadline to assemblies and senate to improve conduct while directing his MPs to submit their resignation at the party headquarters.
“It is only a drama to befool the nation.” Hussain said while referring to joint session of the Parliament that is underway to discuss the prevailing political crisis.
Hussain also asked MQM lawmakers to submit resignations to deputy convener today, adding that the MQM cannot be a part of this corrupt and rotten system.
Lamenting over lawlessness, the MQM chief said that there is no constitution and law in the country. He said that the Parliament’s session was called only to deliver speeches and to preempt any possible intervention by the army.
“The Parliament cannot solve the people’s problems,” he declared.
There should be no dialogue with PTI: Achakzai
After a brief spell of chaos in the House, Sadiq invites Mahmood Khan Achakzai of the Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party to speak.
"Those who have resigned, you let them speak Honourable Speaker, " he says. He said the attack on Parliament was not right, but there are people in the Pakstan Secretariat with batons. "I want your guarantee and Khurshid Shah's guarantee."
"We want to have a well worded resolution saying that attack on Parliament, PTV, Secretariat are violations of Constitution... And everyone should sign it."
"There should be no dialogue with PTI until their parliamentarians sign that resolution," he says.
He adds that if Imran and Qadri are indeed not one, the previous day's handshake has to be disowned. There is more ruckus on PTI resignations, Sadiq clarifies that he will deal with issue of resignation in the speaker's chamber.
Islamabad witnessed a bloodbath: Qureshi
Addressing the joint session of Parliament, following the instructions of Imran Khan, PTI vice chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi says he has come to the Parliament to clarify his party’s stance.
“We are protesting to save the Parliament, not to destroy it,” he says. “PTI never was and never will be part of a grand plan that will undermine democracy,” clarifies Qureshi.
“We are protesting on the directions of the Pakistani nation,” he says explaining that the protests are not scripted.
“I want to be on record; my party opposes the invoking of Article 245,” says Qureshi
Further, Qureshi says he has not come to Parliament for mediation or facilitation but for a resolution to the crisis.
“We embarked on this journey after agreeing on four points,” Qureshi says, adding, “Our points were that our struggle will be democratic, within the realm of the Constitution, our movement will be peaceful and we will defy martial law.”
Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Khursheed Shah stands up and says: “Nobody has a right to interrupt,” calming down other parliamentarians objecting Qureshi’s claims.
“PTI throughout the march has stayed within the law, I can speak for my party,” he says. Earlier, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar left the house as Qureshi started his speech but now Nisar is back.
“Imran sent me to meet Qadri to ask him what the agenda of his party was,” says Qureshi, adding, “Qadri assured me that their struggle was peaceful, democratic and similar to PTI’s.”
“Just as Imran said he will come out on the streets if rigging allegations in four constituencies were not probed, Qadri gave a deadline for the registration of an FIR in the Model Town incident,” says the PTI vice chairman.
Directing the government, Qureshi thanks them for letting them stage their sit-in. However, he angrily asks who he should thank for those killed and injured during the clashes.
‘This is a deadlock, where do we go from here?” asks Qureshi. “We are here today because of the impasse,” he adds.
Finance Minister Ishaq Dar stands up in the middle of Qureshi’s speech and refutes his statements regarding meeting on democratic neutral grounds for meetings. However, NA speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq asks Dar to take a seat and Qureshi to continue with his speech.
“We are going to meet the political jirga at 4pm today,” he says, adding that the talks but lead to positive results or someone might try to sabotage them.
Explaining the current deadlock in talks, Qureshi says, “We argued on one point — the resignation of the prime minister.”
“The government said the premier’s resignation is non-negotiable,” he adds. “The temple of democracy should be built on a free and fair election,” says Qureshi inviting all parties to join them in the pursuit of this goal.
Questioning if PTI was the only party who claimed that the 2013 elections were rigged, Qureshi firmly says all political parties expressed concerns with election results.
“We have to make a new beginning for the future of Pakistan,” Qureshi says, adding, “At 4pm today we will present our point of view.”
As Qureshi concludes his address, NA speaker summons Qureshi in his chamber.
PTI MNAs walk out of Parliament as parliamentarians scream: “They will not resign.”
It must be noted, Qureshi did not discuss resignations from the NA and provincial assemblies in his address.
We came in peace: Qureshi
"People should be allowed to hold peaceful protests. Our detractors said if we came to the capital, there'd be blood. But people were welcoming our march in all the cities that we passed," says Qureshi.
Lawmakers make comments to which Qureshi responds: "Yes don't believe me, you're free not to." As lawmakers bring the NA speaker's attention to the Parliament break-in, Ayaz Sadiq says: "I will talk about the Parliament gate myself." Sadiq urges the legislators not to cross-talk.
"We had agreed that 1) PTI struggle will be democratic 2) Struggle will remain within realm of constitution 3) struggle will be non violent 4) if any extra constitutional force comes into play, we will resist it and condemn it."
Qureshi adds, "Listen to our story even if only to reject it later." Repeating his party's claims of election rigging — which forms the basis of PTI's anti-government protest — Qureshi says, "Imran Khan said his from his sick bed that the elections were not transparent, our mandate was stolen, our rights were trampled upon...in his speech in NA, he asked the government to scrutinise 4 constituencies...so that if there are any problems, that can become clear."
"Imran had said then only that if the government does not facilitate this...I will come out on the streets and he did," Qureshi adds, reiterating his party leader's position.
He touches upon the Gujranwala incident, where he says footage showsPTI activists being harassed.
"My residence was attacked by a PML-N office bearer and his accomplices...but we came here to talk, not to fight."
"It was said that the Parliament would be stormed but I said Parliament is my home.." he says, as MNAs let out resounding boos.
We came on the signal of the people, says Qureshi
"Can we think about how we got here? Do we not remember the sit-in in Lahore's Defence after the May 2013 general elections? Do we not remember what happened in NA-250?," he asks.
"Imran believes that the vote has been rigged, polluted by a number of elements...much has been said about hints...I want to say on record Mr Speaker we vehemently oppose the invoking of Article 245...people talk about the invitation to a third party, to mediate, to facilitate...I am not for mediation and facilitation, but I am here for the resolution."
"We cannot allow the political class to be chucked into the bin," says Shah Mahmood Qureshi. "Why are we here today? We are here to discuss the prevailing political situation in the country?"
"Achakzai you say the dharna is instigated, some have said that; I say yes we did this on a signal but all these signals came from the people of Pakistan...there was an impression that was it too late to stand up against the rigging?
"We talked about this, we thought was it too late to struggle?But the time had come and we saw that we needed to go ahead."
"We talked about this, we thought was it too late to struggle?But the time had come and we saw that we needed to go ahead."
We did the same when we all decided that Pakistan will have an independent judiciary...even my PML-N colleagues were with us."
We want to save Parliament: Qureshi
PTI Senior Vice-President Shah Mehmood Qureshi is on the floor of the House.
"That which is said in a rally is one thing but that which is said on the floor of the House is something else," he said. Asad Umair is also seen seated in Parliament.
"The country is standing at a crossroads...we can either weaken the country or strengthen it. I know there are people who want to add fuel to the fire but there are others who want to resolve the country's issues."
"I believe that I hold the House as dear as everyone here does." "I was trying to calm people down but no one listened to me. I pleaded that the Parliament is my political kaaba...but I cannot command, I can only request," says Qureshi.
"We are not here to burn down the House but to save it. Imran Khan is my Quaid, my leader...but in my training is also the hand of Benazir Bhutto."
"The question is what kind of Parliament...it's our responsibility to defend the Parliament...but what kind of Parliament?...it is true that elections held in Pakistan have been seen with questioning gazes..."
"It is this establishment...if you look at the Asghar Khan case, many will be exposed...we know our history...I am here today because I heard you yesterday...I feel your pain Bizenjo sahab, you speaking of your father's services to this country...I can respond to people's allegations too but my goal is not to hurt people," he says.
""There is an impression in the House here that there is a grand plan, a script...Mr Speaker, on the floor of the House, let me state that PTI never was and never will be part of any grand plan to undermine the Constitution and democracy."
"I am ready to sacrifice myself for my brothers and sisters,"says Qadri
Talking to supporters after the joint session of Parliament, PAT Chief Dr Tahirul Qadri says, "If my enemy kills me...every drop of my blood will cry haq (truth)."
"I am ready to sacrifice myself for my brothers and sisters," he says.
He says his party does not have feudals or rich people as supporters. "We are the poor and middle class."
"I came to take revenge for the killing of our martyrs. I have come in support of Pakistan's poor. I will sit here for an entire year waiting for their [Sharif brothers] resignations if I have to."
"These h******** have robbed ordinary Pakistanis.
Qadri's diatribe covers many of the same points he has raised since August 14.
Claiming he is only eating once every 30 hours, Qadri says, that he eats some cereal only in order to consume his medicines.
Qadri tells supporters to leave if they must, but he has no plans to leave.
"Those who have jobs...those who have to run their homes...those who have troubles...those people are free to leave."
Good news soon, Rehman Malik promises again
PPP's Rehman Malik addresses the press:
"The country will soon hear good news."
"Jirgas have power of principles and ethics, using that power of ethics we went to the PTI and PAT...We don't have ministerial powers, we as a group of opposition parties, went and played an independent role as an arbitrator."
"All the talks that are going on are in the PM's knowledge and the minister who briefed us. Today, hopefully we will meet PTI and PAT members again."
"We want things to improve because Islamabad is in tatters and the protesters are all over the place."
I don't want to discuss the workings of the jirga further because it is a joint discussion with PTI and PAT. We will discuss and brief you on this together. I cannot help but appreciate the efforts of Sirajul Haq who has been working day and night. I also directly addressed Altaf Hussain not to resign from the leadership of his party. Please withdraw your decision Altaf Hussain."
Imran, first try becoming opposition leader, then PM'
Sherpao tears into the PTI:
"What democracy is this, that PTI is not resigning from the K-P Assembly? Is it because they lead the government there?"
"Imran, first try to make it to the position of opposition leader and then begin to dream of becoming prime minister...if you have any real proof of rigging, then produce it. Making thunderous claims about rigging and not producing any evidence is not helpful."
"It is atrocious that SSP Islamabad was beaten up...why are you attacking policemen and ridiculing those who are only doing their duty? If you want revenge, come to us, not to poor policemen."
"PTI has even attacked lawyers and journalists, saying they have been bought...implying that anyone who speaks against PTI has been bought, or has no morals."
Condemnations for PTI, PAT aplenty
"I condemn those who blocked the ways of the judges who wanted to get to SC building...I condemn those who were drying their laundry on the plaques outside the SC building...I condemn those who call Parliament bogus...I condemn those who say they do not trust the prime minister because even if the judicial commission began working, the government will influence it...this is no confidence on SC judges...what impression are these parties trying to give?"
"These buildings are important because they reflect the spirit of the state...we should unite and say that those who are sitting outside are not adopting the democratic way...we cannot adopt these measures...people in parliament have been bestowed the honour by the people of Pakistan."
"Whoever wrote the script for this drama is from "Purana Pakistan" not "Naya Pakistan"...they thought we are still mentally in the 1990s and that rigging allegations can be used to attain any ends...but the politicians of this country have matured."
"In the 1990s the opposition used to be prepared for the first opportunity to drag the government down and out, but times have changed."
No PM resignation this way: Sherpao
aumi Watan Party's Aftab Khan Sherpao speaks on the floor of the House.
"The PTI lawmakers who came in, I commend them."
"It is a pity that nowadays we are entering Parliament from the strangest of entrances we had never seen before...but it's heartening that the lawmakers are here...here without a 'telephone call from someone'".
"I want to say first, we are not with PML-N, we are in opposition and playing our role as an opposition party...Parliament will save the country from the current crisis."
"We are upset that...our issues of IDPs, of operation have been put on the back burner...no one remembers our problems...it is a pity, if these people who are outside spoke of these issues we would have understood...but these groups didn't even once mention the problems of K-P...CM Khattak and all ministers of KP came here with protocol and are attacking Parliament."
"I am happy that as we held our joint session...the two [PTI/PAT] also held a joint session yesterday...this journey started from London and I have said this before as well...last night Imran and Qadri had some 2,000-3,000 people...after teargas, the evening singsong is no longer happening."
"Those who entered the physical premises of Parliament...crossed the railings...shouldn't you do something about this honourable speaker?...It doesn't matter whose people they are because both [Imran/Qadri] stood on the same container last evening."
"I condemn the attack on PTV...what message were they trying to send? To erode state power...to show to people internationally that Parliament and PTV have been attacked and the government of Nawaz Sharif has come to an end."
"But the Parliament exists and Nawaz is seated on his chair...and will continue to for the next four years."
'Protest against Nawaz, or Pakistan?'
Senator Hasil Bizenjo continues to speak.
"China wants to invest $34billion in Pakistan and its president is expected to come but he's mulling whether he should come now...if he cancels his visit, I will be forced to wonder whether this sit-in is against Nawaz Sharif or against Pakistan?"
"There can be no politics without political ethics...the first lesson of political ethics is that one should not attack their opponents' on a personal level."
"When someone says I will drag Nawaz by his collar...how is this politics?"
'Politics will become difficult for them [PTI/PAT]'
Senator Hasil Bizenjo of the National Party speaks on the floor of the House.
"Everyone is saying the country is going through a difficult phase...what has happened? Do we have martial law? There is no danger...it is only our democratic attitude that we let the protesters come and it is they who created a situation...the government is in no difficulty, no danger."
"All political parties urged the government not to stop these people and let them come...a million people were apparently supposed to come to the capital...I have done marches and sit-ins all my life but have never seen any long marches so relaxed...they do breakfasts, lunches, dinners...what sort of a long march is this?"
"Everyone in that crowd is calling it a long march and think they are Mao" Bizenjo says, drawing desk thumps and some protest from the PTI MNAs.
"People say PML-N activists attacked PTI workers in Gujranwala... how did that happen? If PTI has a million people in its march, how did the 500 of PML-N dare to approach PTI crowd?"
"These two groups [PTI/PAT] used all kinds of abuse against the political parties...when these political parties are talking to you and facilitating you...if they will resort to abuse and say what they will, politics will become difficult for them."
"If today, anyone has challenged the Parliament, the Constitution, all political parties are standing together and we won't allow anyone to attack all that we hold sacred."
'We enter Parliament like kittens'
Awami National Party's Zahid Khan continues to speak.
“My friends from PTI are coming to the House today...I tried to convince them that they need to come to the House and air their grievances.”
“The House today is standing with the prime minister...but please do not let it come to the point that we have to stand against you...although we are with democracy, it's you who is benefiting honourable PM...we want you to respect the parliamentarians.”
“I respect Javed Hashmi for his stand and for his resignation.”
“If you had called the joint session earlier, that would have been better…well, better late than never.”
"We enter the Parliament like kittens...from one gate on one day, from another gate or another day."
"All the things that Hashmi has said...we need to save the Constitution so that Pakistan remains strong."
"Like Maulana I will reiterate that Sufi Mohammad is in jail for saying he does not believe in the Constitution...my brother from MQM said he would have been charged for treason if he had called for civil disobedience...so why is Imran not being held accountable? Because he is from Punjab...with due respect to my brothers from the province."
"Those shedding crocodile tears for the deaths of the 14 people in Model Town tragedy...what of the people who died in the May 12 incident in Karachi? Were they not human? Why has no one gone so far for them?"
"I must emphasise that a conspiracy is underway against the 18th Amendment."
Awami National Party's Zahid Khan continues to speak.
"It was heartening for me to hear Javed Hashmi speaking of Bacha Khan's sacrifices for the country...it is us who made sure that Pakistan's flag remained flying in Swat"
"When we used to ask the people of Swat to stand against the Taliban...they said how do we do it...on one point is the army checkpost on another is that of the Taliban..they have tea...how do we stand against the Taliban?"
"Those using the name of army or calling for it to remove the government...army should give them a shut up call."
"We have reached a situation where we want the government to act democratically...but the traditional of ousting an elected government by a crowd of a few thousand must never be allowed."
PTI MNAs enter the House
As expected, PTI MNAs have now entered Parliament.
“Kindly, order in the House please, no comments, this is not D-chowk,” Ayaz Sadiq says as a small ruckus occurs.
Nawaz in Parliament
A quiet, tense-looking Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is seated in the House and the joint session of the Parliament has begun.
Speaker Ayaz Sadiq is in the chair.
Awami National Party's Zahid Khan is on the floor of the House. Khan says all political parties had worked on the passing of the 18th Amendment and those provinces which were upset with the federation had to some extent been satisfied with it. He says a conspiracy is underway against the 18th Amendment.
Khan says it’s been 16-18 days that this "drama" is underway and all broadcasters have been giving air time to the protesters without appearing to care for the internally displaced persons.
Will only leave after Nawaz resigns: Sheikh Rasheed
Addressing the press, Sheikh Rasheed says the last five overs of the match have started. He says he will leave only after Nawaz Sharif resigns.
Responding to a question as to whether he would be satisfied with the probe of a commission into alleged rigging, Rasheed says:
"Everyone knows what happened to the Hamoodur Rehman commission, the Memo Commission, the Abbottabad commission and all others, so this so-called commission will also have no meaning."
‘I have not respected anyone more than Hashmi sahib’
Speaking about Javed Hashmi, he said he has not respected anyone more than Hashmi. He, however, added that he was hurt by statement of his party’s president in which he alleged that Khan was backed by Army and current chief justice.
Dialogue process to continue until logical conclusion reached: JUI ChiefAddressing media persons after the meeting between the grand opposition jirga and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)'s negotiating team, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Emir Sirajul Haq said “Entire nation is disturbed due to the ongoing crises. PTI accepted our request with open heart and we are thankful to them."
The head of the grand opposition jirga said that the journey of dialogue process would continue until a logical conclusion was reached.
Senior PPP leader Rehman Malik said “I would like to thank Imran Khan who met us in the middle of the crowd. We condemn the use of violence against their party activists.”He said “I would request the government not to view the agreement of the Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) and PTI to engage in dialogue as their weakness," and also appeaeled to the government to stop the act of detaining PAT an PTI activists across the country."
Freedom or death is my resolve ever since I came here: Imran Khan
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan on Tuesday said that this many leaders have spoken in favour of the so called democracy in parliament today, asking if anyone even mentioned the election rigging.
Addressing the Azadi March participants, he alleged that the people voted for change but the government changed people’s votes. He claimed this system is kleptocracy and not democracy, adding that he and Benazir Bhutto studied politics in Oxford University together and that he knows what real democracy is.
He said the constitution demands free and fair elections. He said everyone is alleging rigging took place including Fazlur Rehman and Aitzaz Ahsan, alleging that only Mehmood Khan Achakzai is silent because eight of his family members hold key political posts.
Imran vows to remain in container even if protesters leave
Imran Khan vowed to stay in the container, custom-made for the ‘Azadi march’ even if all the protesters leave ongoing sit-in in front of the parliament.
“Remember, freedom demands sacrifices … it cannot be achieved by sitting at home,” Khan lectured his supporters, adding: “We would remain slaves to the rulers if we surrender now.” He once again urged his supporters across the country to join him in the federal capital.
Imran speaks again, assails Achakzai for supporting ‘rigging’
Speaking to his and Dr Tahirul Qadri’s supporters outside the Parliament in Islamabad, PTI Chairman Imran Khan has again lashed out at the PML-N government.
He criticized Mehmood Khan Achakzai for favouring what he called dhandli (rigging) and not democracy. “He has achieved so much due to this dahndli,” he said.
“When Interior Minister Chaudhr Nisar Ali Khan has accepted on the floor of the parliament that up to 60 to 70,000 votes are unverifiable … then how can these elections be called credible?”
Imran Khan lauded Aitzaz Ahsan for delivering a balanced speech in the National Assembly earlier in the day. However, he quickly criticized him for terming his party’s sit-in unconstitutional.
Imran Khan lauded Aitzaz Ahsan for delivering a balanced speech in the National Assembly earlier in the day. However, he quickly criticized him for terming his party’s sit-in unconstitutional.
Imran, Qadri share container
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) officially joined hands today (Tuesday) as PAT chief Dr. Tahirul Qadri also joined PTI Chairman Imran Khan on his container.
Speaking to the crowd on this occasion, Dr. Qadri said that the Articles 1 – 40 of the constitution gave rights to the people of Pakistan but the people of Pakistan were never given their rights during the last 41 years. He said that his struggle was for the rights of the people and those who had not given the rights to the people of Pakistan should be tried under Article 6.
Dr. Qadri again said that PAT had nothing to do with PAT workers. He said that attacking Pakistan Television (PTV) building was not even a part of the plan. Tahirul Qadri said that it was possible that attack on PTV was actually carried out by members of Pakistan Muslim League (N). He said that he did not identify any of the people who had attacked PTV building on Monday. “We did not have any axes”, said Tahirul Qadri. He asked the government to show those people who got injured by axes.
Criticizing the government, Tahirul Qadri said that Pakhtunkhawa Milli Awami Party (PK-MAP) leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai was trying to the ‘champion of democracy’ only because he was an MNA while his brother was Governor in Balochistan. He said that Prremier Nawaz Sharif liked this system because 24 members of his family had important positions in the government.
PAT chief said that PAT and PTI believed in the form of democracy which stood for 180 million people of Pakistan while the members of assembly believed in the democracy which stood for elites.
Congratulating the protesters, Qadri said that because of the public pressure, FIR of Model Town incident has now been registered. He said that the sections about terrorism were also included in the FIR now.
Speaking on this occasion, Chairman PTI Imran Khan said that he and Dr. Tahirul Qadri would not leave the container unless they got Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif’s resignations.
PTI MNAs to attend their last NA session tommorow, says Imran
PTI chairman Imran Khan takes the stage to address his supporters for the first time today.
“JI chief Sirajul Haq is bringing a jirga of opposition for talks,” says Imran, adding, “Doors for talks should always be kept open.”
Referring to the joint session of Parliament earlier today, Imran says he has asked PTI vice chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi to attend the session tomorrow and address “point by point” the party agenda.
“At 7:30pm today, I will address the nation to clarify PTI’s agenda and why we are resigning from the National Assembly,” says Imran refuting claims that he wants to derail democracy.
Imran asks all his MNAs to attend the joint session tomorrow. “It will be our last time in the NA,” says the PTI chairman.
“I will stay here till I win this competition,” says Imran concluding his address.
Govt decides for 'final dialogue' with Imran, Qadri
The federal government on Tuesday decided to hold negotiations with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan and Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) chief Dr Tahirul Qadri for the ‘last time’.
The government resolved to bring a joint resolution to evacuate ‘Red Zone’ of protesters if the issue is not resolved by Thursday.
According to sources, the government decided to resume the dialogue process with PTI, PAT leaders for the last time.
The sources revealed that opposition parliamentary leaders will also be consulted over the resolution. The sources further told that the resolution is expected to be presented on Thursday but the final decision will be taken after the consultation.
The resolution will order the law enforcement institutions to evacuate the Red Zone
Hashmi makes resignation official
After his thunderbolt statement regarding Imran Khan's hope for 'third party involvement', Javed Hashmi addresses the Assembly.
"I am here in this House to testify that this country can only be saved by a democratic, parliamentary system and the Constitution."
"It's a pity that the Quaid-i-Azam who stood for the country's democracy...died in an ambulance..no one cared for him."
He continues, "Small provinces have grievances with Punjab; many of those grievances are valid and cannot be refuted."
"The constitution that Bhutto gave to Pakistan has kept the country's foundations strong."
"Honourable speaker, as for resignations, I resign from my seat...I am going back to the people of Pakistan," Hashmi says to NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, who had earlier said that he had not accepted the resignations of PTI lawmakers as he had not been present when they were submitted.
"People did not resign of their own will but I am resigning now," Hashmi says, as he concludes his speech. Nawaz Sharif walks over to Javed Hashmi; the two shake hands.
The session of the House is adjourned till Wednesday; session to begin tomorrow at 11 am.
"Tahirul Qadri was my classfellow," Hashmi says in his National Assembly session. "I said to Imran how he could stand with Qadri when his demands are so different from PTI's?"
"Do not put Imran in the dock. Government should be in the dock for not working for the people's welfare and progress."
Despite his rift with the party, Hashmi maintains that he is the elected party president. "I thank people of Multan, Lahore, Pindi, Islamabad for all the times they've elected me as representative. I am still the elected president of PTI."
"We have wait for 10 years for Parliament to become empowered. People have sacrificed their lives for this country...for democracy. I was in jail for some 7-8 years...Bacha Khan was in jail for longer than Nelson Mandela."
"We didn't value all these sacrifices made by so many people. People wanted to exclude Mujibur Rehman...said they wanted to rid of Bengalis — How are we better off? Bangladesh is far more prosperous than Pakistan now?" Hashmi asks
Hashmi continues him impassioned speech in Parliament. "Nawaz has been given chances many times...but Pakistan is not in a prosperous state," he says.
Moving over to the subject of Imran Khan, he says, "Imran has tremendous support from the youth."
"Nawaz should respect MNAs and their views...I've worked with him but left when felt it wasn't working out. We should get over our personal preferences and work in the best interests of Pakistan."
"I had advised Benazir not to reach a deal with Musharraf...even told her Musharraf will get her killed."
He also says that today's political class is not working to ensure prosperity of the people. "Parliament should become a purposeful Parliament...I have put my political career on the line for this."
"People say why I didn't come out with the truth before but I was trying to convince PTI members. Imran promised me he won't go against the Constitution."
In a fit of rage, Javed Hashmi shakes with anger as he addresses the prime minister. "Why didn't the PM go to the Senate for 14 months?" he demands.
Reiterating his statements regarding Imran Khan, he says, "Imran said he wants to hold a sit-in at D-chowk, I said okay. When Imran started talking about SC forming a government of technocrats, I told him SC doesn't have that power."
Skipping to the issue of the blocked routes to Parliament, he says, "Today I reached Parliament...searching for the way to the building...all my life I will keep looking for the way."
Maulana Fazlur Rehman takes the floor
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, while addressing the parliamentarians, questions what a 30-day resignation from the seat of prime minister meant?
“How can you resign for 30 days? What difference will that make to the situation,” he further questions.
“Today we are being denied democracy.”
“Our Parliament got attacked and we just sat there and watched,” he remarks.
Speaking about the current political crisis, the JUI-F leader asks the nation to ”fix it without the use of power”.
“No bureaucrat can go to his office. We have had to find alternative ways to reach the Parliament House,” he says
“We do not want to give the world an impression that we do not respect who is in power,” says Rehman.
“Despite having power, the government has not been able to control four to five thousand people,” says Rehman.
Speaking about the attack on PTV headquarters, he says “the PTV transmissions ceased; the whole world saw this. We have no respect for this nation.”
“When police get involved, they are beaten up. The SP was beaten. This is how we behave with our police. What message is this giving the rest of the world? If a member of the army goes to resolve the situation, they listen,” the JUI-F leader says, commenting about the difference in attitude of the protesters towards the police and the army.
“These are the people who want to take their nation to destruction,” adds Rehman.
“We have made it difficult for China, the worlds biggest investor, to invest in Pakistan,” he says.
“The internally displaced persons (IDPs) of North Waziristan as a result Operation Zarb-e-Azb need our help, but everyone has just become involved in resolving the situation in Islamabad,” he remarks.
Govt not our family property: Khalid M Siqqiqui
Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) leader Khalid Maqbool, while addressing the joint session, says “if we had followed democracy the right way, nobody would have stood up to the government the way they have.”
Speaking about the attack on the PTV headquarters, the MQM leader says what has happened at PTV is arrest worthy.
Referring to the Model Town tragedy, Maqbool says mothers and daughters killed in during the Model Town clashes should be given justice.
Achakzai slams Imran, Qadri
While addressing the parliament, Pashtoonkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) chief Mehmood Khan Achakzai says all parties in the parliament are on one page.
“Aitzaz Ahsan mistakenly said we are supporting PM Nawaz out of compulsion; no, we are supporting him out of our commitment,” he says.
Achakzai says the parliament and the judiciary support the Constitution.
“Our Army has to respect our Constitution just like other armies across the world do so,” he adds.
Imran's allegations carry weight: Aitzaz
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Aitzaz Ahsan, while addressing the joint session of the Parliament, says all opposition parties are standing by the Constitution without any doubt to save democracy.
Criticising government for the Model Town incident, Aitzaz says Qadri had been requesting for an FIR against the culprits but the state failed to do so.
“The government wanted to remove barriers in Model Town but why have you placed containers in Islamabad,” asks Aitzaz.
“Today, police is not listening to you because of discrepancies in your past policies,” he says.
“We are ashamed because of what happened to the media,” he adds.
“Those protesting in Islamabad have a valid point; the rigging was massive,” the PPP leader says.
“Rigging did take place; there is substance in Imran’s claims of corruption,” he says.
“The opposition is standing by you to save the democracy, there is no instance of such support in the past,” he says.
“PM Nawaz, once you are through these trying times, you have to sit and think who are your real friends,” Aitzaz asks, referring to his ministers using harsh language against their opponents.
“Your ministers don’t take matters seriously,” he says.
“Yesterday, you said you will not resign, you had said the same thing in the past but you resigned; I hope you will stick to your words this time,” he recalls.
“If you are steadfast, no power can force you to resign,” he says, assuring him of his support.
“Media has unjustifiably given coverage to Qadri and Imran,” Aitzaz says as he shifts his criticism to the protesting parties.
The nation has not paid heed to their calls for revolution,” he says, lambasting them for having a team that needs a revolution themselves.
“PM Nawaz we want to assure you that despite the small group that is protesting in the federal capital, we are standing by you,” he says.
“We are supporting you because you support democracy but once this difficult time is over, we will continue criticising your policies,” he says, concluding his address.
“Where in the world or in which planet do you take stick-wielding, armed protesters carrying cutters and expect not to be stopped,” says Aitzaz, questioning Imran’s reference of such protests outside 10 Downing Street.
“Benazir Bhutto always led the protests from the front; she would put herself in front of baton-holding police,” he adds.
“Begum Nusrat Bhutto was also hit during protests,” he recalls, criticising Imran and Qadri for their ‘container politics’.
“PM Nawaz and his interior minister have been very polite with the protesters,” he says.
“The protesters were allowed to come this close but what if next time, another group comes and calls for actions against minorities, demands imposition of their version of Islam,” he asks.
Nisar terms PTI, PAT protests a 'rebellion' against Pakistan
Federal Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan while speaking during a joint session of Parliament in Islamabad on Tuesday said that the protests by PTI and PAT are a rebellion against Pakistan.
Addressing the joint session of Parliament on Tuesday in Islamabad, Federal Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan said that Pakistan is going through the most critical stage amid the ongoing political impasse. Parliament is the voice of 18 million people and the parliament stands united against mutiny and mob violence, he said.
Referring to PTI and PAT sit-in protests, Nisar said that there are only two thousand people gathered outside. He said that the mob, terming violence as democratic move, arrived at the gate of the Parliament House. The violent mob is attacking state buildings and institutions, he added. The entire country is on one side while the mob is on the other demanding resignation of the Prime Minister, said the Interior Minister. Nisar’s remark that the protest leaders claim to change the history of Pakistan was followed by assembly members shouting slogans against Imran Khan and Tahirul Qadri. He asked what has happened in the last few months that made Imran Khan change his mind. Citing examples from the western countries, Imran Khan is fooling the nation, said Nisar. Interior Minister said that he had been informed about the attack on state institutions by the protestors. Imran Khan in his statements threatened Interior secretary and government officials, he lamented. All the political parties agreed on allowing the protestors to march on the Federal Capital, informed Nisar. He said that Imran Khan and Tahirul Qadri are revolting against the country. The sit-in protests are a rebellion against state buildings, institutions and the Parliament of Pakistan, urged Nisar. Talking about the attack on PTV headquarters on Monday morning, Nisar said that those who have attacked the national TV of Pakistan can’t be well-wishers of the country. Nisar informed that the protestors stormed into the PTV headquarters, yesterday and misbehaved with a woman broadcaster. They also forcefully entered the mosque inside PTV headquarters and took away the loudspeakers and prayer rugs, he added. Nisar said that Imran Khan deceived the government, in spite of several commitments, adding that he has a letter and SMS by Imran Khan as a record. Imran Khan and Tahirul Qadri have crossed all the limits of morality with their open lies, he said. Shouting slogans of a fake revolution, these fake revolutionaries are, in fact, terrorists in disguise. He said that some 150 trained militants are participating in the protest sit-ins outside the Parliament House in Islamabad.
Joint session of Parliament opens
The joint session of the Parliament has now begun. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was seen walking into the National Assembly amidst party representatives and reporters.
He is expected to address the Assembly shortly.
One-point agenda issued for parliamentary session
A one-point agenda has been issued for the parliamentary session which is scheduled to begin at 11 am today.
The agenda will be presented by Federal Minister for Science and Technology Zaid Hamid in the session.
The session will discuss the prevailing political crisis, particularly the statements of Javed Hashmi who has developed differences with the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI).
SC issues notices to all parliamentary parties, including PAT
Hearing a set of petitions against sit-ins by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) and the Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) on the Constitution Avenue, the Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notices to all parliamentary parties as well as the PAT.
The notices were issued after the petitioner pleaded to the court that all parliamentary parties be summoned so the deadlock can be resolved.
Notices have been issued to PPP, PML-N, MQM, ANP, PML-Q, PML-Z, BNP, AML, APML. QWP, PkMap, NP and other parties
Do not need anyone's support in politics, claims Imran
In a statement released by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), Chairman Imran Khan was reported to have said that he has never supported military involvement in the country’s political matters.
The statement said Khan unequivocally supported democracy and followed democratic rules.
The PTI chairman also stated "Javed Hashmi's statement about the new Chief Justice of Pakistan is a figment of his imagination," and added that it was unfortunate that Hashmi chose to try and 'malign him in a baseless fashion for his own questionable agenda.'
PTI chairman claimed that Nawaz Sharif was defaming the army and had alleged it was backing protests of PTI and PAT.
Continuing his allegations against Geo television network Imran Khan claimed “Nawaz Sharif, using Geo, tried to malign the ISI chief. Geo is N-league's media cell.”
“I approached all legal avenue to resolve the issue of poll-rigging but to no avail. The government kept employing delaying tactics but this is the real power that the government is now willing to accept all our demands except the prime minister’s resignation,” Imran Khan said. He added “But we will not go back until Nawaz Sharif resigns.”
PTI chairman Imran appreciated the Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) and their efforts, specially during the government crackdown on Saturday night. He urged them not to provide any reason for provocation of violence.
He said the eyes of the entire nation were on the supporters and requested PAT and PTI activists not to dash the hopes of the nation and to stay away from government buildings.
