ISLAMABAD: The Upper House of Pakistan’s Parliament faced a challenging year, passing 47 bills and 18 resolutions despite frequent disruptions from opposition protests. These protests hindered crucial legislative progress and decision-making, overshadowing the parliamentary year in the Senate.
While government officials highlighted the successful passage of important legislation aimed at benefiting the country, the persistent protests from the opposition negatively impacted the Senate’s overall performance. A total of 65 sessions were held, many marked by intense opposition demonstrations on various issues, which escalated at different points during the year.
Significant legislation passed by the Senate included the 26th Constitutional Amendment, the Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Act, amendments regarding the number of Supreme Court judges, the Islamabad High Court Amendment Bill, and the Pakistan Army Amendment Bill.
Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani also participated in an unofficial protest concerning the non-implementation of production orders for Senator Ejaz Chaudhry.
While government senators expressed satisfaction with the Upper House’s performance, the opposition, which remained in protest throughout the year, continues to express dissatisfaction. Critics, including Hamid Khan and Abdul Qadir, argued that despite the passage of significant bills, the effectiveness of the Senate was severely compromised by the ongoing uproar and protests from the opposition.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.