Former National Assembly speaker Asad Qaiser has responded to remarks by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, saying intelligence officials were present only to provide input on legislation related to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). The statement comes amid a political dispute over meetings held during discussions on key anti-money laundering laws. The exchange has renewed debate over the role of state institutions in legislative processes.
Addressing comments made by Khawaja Asif in the National Assembly, Qaiser said the meetings were held at the official residence of the National Assembly speaker rather than his personal home. He maintained that the gatherings focused on consultations regarding FATF-related legislation and coordination between the government and opposition.
Qaiser said he was facilitating dialogue between political parties to ensure the passage of important bills. According to him, officials from the Inter-Services Intelligence agency attended the meetings to provide technical input on anti-money laundering measures and FATF requirements. He rejected suggestions that the meetings served any other purpose.
The PTI leader also questioned Khawaja Asif’s remarks about carrying a burden on his conscience. Qaiser referred to the February 2024 general elections and challenged the defence minister over the outcome of his constituency contest. He claimed Asif should address concerns regarding the election before criticizing others.
Concluding his response, Qaiser urged Khawaja Asif to resign from his National Assembly seat if he genuinely felt burdened by his conscience. He further challenged him to contest another election against Rehana Dar, arguing that voters should once again decide the outcome at the ballot box.