Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan has officially assumed the role of Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, bringing an end to the suspense surrounding the assembly's leadership. His inauguration ceremony took place as he pledged his oath of office, administered by the outgoing Speaker, Sabtain Khan.
The conclusion of the vote counting process marked a significant milestone in Punjab's political arena. Representing the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Malik Ahmad Khan emerged triumphant as the newly elected Speaker of the Punjab Assembly. His victory underscores a strong mandate from assembly members.
Malik Ahmad Khan's ascendancy to the position of Speaker was solidified by an impressive tally of 225 votes out of the 327 total cast during the election. This overwhelming support reflects the confidence vested in him by the assembly members, highlighting their trust in his ability to lead the legislative body effectively.
Malik Ahmad Khan hails from Khudian town in the Kasur district of Punjab, with his village Khai Hithar situated on its outskirts. His familial background includes his grandfather a Zaildar of the area.
His father, Malik Muhammad Ali Khan, actively participated in politics and held the position of Deputy Chairman of the Senate from January 23, 1986, to March 20, 1988. He was recognized as Malik Muhammad Ali Khan Khaiwala, named after his village. Notably, he even served as the Acting President of Pakistan for 31 days during a period when the President and Senate Chairman were unavailable.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Malik Ahmad Khan pursued law studies in London after studying in at Aitchison College. In 2002, he entered the political arena as a Member of the Punjab Assembly representing the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q). However, his 2008 electoral bid with the PML-Q was unsuccessful, leading to his distancing from the party. Subsequently, his association with Shehbaz Sharif grew, prompting his transition to Sharif’s party.
Malik Ahmad Khan continued his political journey, winning seats in the Punjab Assembly in the general elections of 2013, 2018, and 2024. Post-2018, he served as the spokesperson for Shehbaz Sharif's government and later took on responsibilities related to law.
After the no-confidence motion against former Prime Minister Imran Khan, Malik Ahmad Khan assumed the role of Special Assistant to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for Defense in the new government.
Described as a calm individual who rarely loses his temper, Malik Ahmad Khan is recognized as a proficient lawyer with persuasive skills in convincing judges through compelling arguments. He maintains a legal chamber on Zafar Ali Road near Gymkhana in Lahore.
When the Punjab government shifted from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to PML-N, there were expectations of Malik Ahmed Khan becoming the Chief Minister, but Hamza Shehbaz Sharif assumed the role, partly due to his better acceptability among classmates.
Given Malik Ahmad Khan’s understanding of Punjab Assembly’s values, traditions, and amicable relations with various leaders, including PTI’s Mian Aslam Iqbal, he is anticipated to not only efficiently manage the House as Speaker but also safeguard the party's interests with broad support.
