The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) walked out of both the Senate and National Assembly once again. This protest came in response to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s recent remarks. PPP leaders said they will not attend proceedings until someone from the government addresses their concerns. They demanded a public apology and warned against interpreting their silence as weakness. Tensions between PPP and the ruling PML-N remain high.
In the Senate, PPP leader Sherry Rehman strongly criticized the remarks made by Maryam Nawaz. She said offering an apology does not lower dignity and that provinces should not be treated like personal property. She reminded the government that PPP’s support is not a compulsion. She called for mutual respect between coalition partners. Her speech received support from some opposition benches.
Read more: PPP demands Maryam Nawaz retract Punjab statements
At the same time in the National Assembly, Raja Pervaiz Ashraf expressed deep concern. He said irresponsible statements have hurt not only PPP members but the public as well. He made it clear that PPP cannot be part of parliamentary business unless the matter is resolved. He also said they don’t want to escalate tensions but won’t accept disrespect. He warned against spreading provincialism in the country.
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar tried to calm the situation. He said political friction happens and assured PPP will be brought back to the table. He stated that President Asif Zardari will play a key role in reconciliation. However, PPP members still walked out of both houses. They repeated their demand for a public apology before resuming normal engagement.
Read more: PPP walks out of NA, demands end to Punjab’s rhetoric
Later, President Zardari contacted Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to discuss rising tensions. He also summoned him to Karachi for talks on Sindh and Punjab’s relations. The PPP continues to urge the ruling party to avoid divisive politics. For now, cooperation between allies remains uncertain as both sides wait for a resolution.