ISLAMABAD:
In a session that almost went up in smoke, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq let off steam on Friday as a member sparked controversy by smoking during the parliamentary proceedings.
The incident took place during a session presided over by NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, where one member was observed smoking in violation of parliamentary norms.
Expressing his anger, Sadiq remarked that it was a historic first for the National Assembly of Pakistan, witnessing a member puffing a cigarette on the parliamentary floor.
He said that even sipping water within the hallowed halls required formal permission.
Moreover, addressing the assembly members, the newly-elected NA speaker conveyed his disappointment, urging them not to bring unauthorised individuals into the session, citing instances of spectators in the gallery creating TikTok videos.
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He warned of strict actions in the future if such incidents recurred.
He stressed that the galleries within the house are integral parts of the parliamentary proceedings and should be treated as such.
It’s worth noting that Ayaz Sadiq, a loyalist of the Sharif family and a member of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), secured the position of Speaker of the National Assembly just last week.
The election saw him defeating the nominee of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed Sunni Ittehad Council.
