Opposition Protests in Sindh Assembly Over Denial of Speaking Rights

Opposition lawmakers in the Sindh Assembly staged a protest on January 4, 2025, after being denied the right to speak during a session.

The incident occurred when Speaker Agha Siraj Durrani refused to allow opposition members to voice their concerns on several critical issues, including the worsening law and order situation in the province and the government’s handling of recent economic challenges.

The opposition parties, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), and others, expressed their frustration over the Speaker’s decision.

They argued that the denial of speaking rights undermined the democratic process and hindered their ability to represent their constituents effectively.

The protesting lawmakers raised slogans and demanded an immediate review of the Speaker’s actions.

In response, the Speaker defended his decision, stating that the opposition had failed to adhere to the established parliamentary procedures.

He maintained that the session’s agenda was already set and that allowing additional discussions could disrupt the proceedings.

The protest escalated when several opposition members gathered in the middle of the assembly hall, holding placards and chanting slogans.

Some lawmakers even walked out in protest, leaving the session without further participation.

The disruption continued for nearly an hour, with both sides exchanging heated remarks.

Despite the disruption, the provincial government proceeded with the day’s business, which included discussions on various administrative and legislative matters.

However, the controversy over the denial of speaking rights overshadowed the proceedings and drew widespread criticism from political observers.

The incident reflects the ongoing political tensions in Sindh, with the opposition accusing the ruling party of stifling dissent and undermining democratic norms.

The issue is likely to dominate political discourse in the coming days, as both sides brace for further confrontations in the provincial assembly.