The performance report of the Punjab Assembly’s second parliamentary year, under the leadership of Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, presents an encouraging and largely positive picture of the provincial legislature. According to the report, there has been a marked improvement not only in the volume of legislation but also in the overall functioning of the House. Compared to the first parliamentary year, the second year appears more active, dynamic and outcome-oriented reflecting a legislature moving in the right direction to address public issues and strengthen governance frameworks.
During the second parliamentary year, the Punjab Assembly held 15 sessions spanning a total of 82 days, with 62 sittings conducted. These figures indicate continuity in parliamentary business and a sustained pace in the legislative process. Most notably, the Assembly achieved record progress in lawmaking: 109 bills were introduced, of which 99 were passed. This stands as a significant milestone in the Assembly’s parliamentary history and highlights an enhanced focus on legislation.
The passage of all 58 government-sponsored bills demonstrates not only serious preparation on the part of the government but also effective coordination and cooperation within the House. Equally significant is the approval of 41 out of 51 private members’ bills. This reflects the provision of meaningful legislative space to both treasury and opposition benches A healthy democratic practice that strengthens parliamentary credibility and inclusivity.
Beyond legislation, the report also notes a substantial rise in the number of resolutions and motions. During the year, 270 resolutions were tabled, of which 182 were adopted. These resolutions addressed a wide range of public concerns, social welfare issues, and national and provincial matters, serving as a collective expression of the Assembly’s stance on key issues. Similarly, the considerable number of adjournment motions, privilege motions and calling attention notices points to an active legislature where members consistently raised public grievances and constituency-related matters on the floor of the House.
The report, however, also acknowledges areas requiring improvement. The response rate to questions, notices and Zero Hour interventions did not meet expectations. Nevertheless, the high volume of questions and notices itself indicates that members remain vigilant about departmental performance and committed to advancing parliamentary oversight and accountability. With institutional reforms and improved executive responsiveness, this aspect can be further strengthened in the future.
Overall, the Punjab Assembly’s performance during its second parliamentary year reflects a more effective and engaged legislature, particularly in terms of lawmaking. The record number of bills passed, the increased use of resolutions and motions, and the consistent functioning of the House signal progress towards democratic consolidation at the provincial level. If mechanisms for responding to parliamentary questions and notices are further streamlined, the Assembly has the potential to emerge as a stronger, more dignified and genuinely people-centred parliament.
Indeed, the second parliamentary year of the Punjab Assembly stands as clear evidence that democratic institutions, when guided by continuity, diligence and serious legislative intent, can play a decisive role in strengthening public trust and democratic governance.
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