Islamabad: The Joint Session of Pakistan’s Parliament is underway at the Parliament House in Islamabad, chaired by Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq. During the session, lawmakers are reviewing proclamations issued by the President on October 11, which impose emergency and Governor’s Rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, amidst a deteriorating security situation in the province.

According to Radio Pakistan, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhary presented two proclamations for parliamentary approval. The Law Minister, Azam Nazeer Tarar, emphasized the constitutional necessity of this approval, citing the National Assembly and Senate’s previous endorsement of the measures. The proclamations were deemed essential due to the province’s grave security challenges and the perceived inaction of the provincial government.

Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan, Engineer Amir Muqam, criticized the previous Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government for its approach towards terrorism. Meanwhile, PPP’s Sherry Rehman called for unity against terrorism and criticized the PTI’s provincial leadership for hindering dialogue between the government and the opposition. Amir Muqam underscored the need for the emergency measures to remain until peace is fully restored.

The session began with a prayer for victims of a recent roof collapse in Peshawar, setting a somber tone as lawmakers deliberate on the critical security and governance issues facing Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.