The Senate Secretariat has formally notified the appointment of Allama Raja Nasir Abbas as leader of the opposition, ending weeks of delay caused by legal and procedural hurdles.

The appointment was officially announced during a Senate session chaired by Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, marking a key development in parliamentary proceedings.

The Secretariat issued the notification under the signature of the acting secretary, confirming Allama Abbas as the new leader of the opposition in the Upper House.

Copies of the notification were sent to Abbas, all Senate members, the President House, Prime Minister House, and the Leader of the House in the Senate.

Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani formally announced the appointment on the Senate floor, stating that Raja Nasir Abbas enjoys the support of 22 senators, fulfilling the required parliamentary strength. He clarified that the appointment was made strictly in accordance with legal regulations and Senate rules.

The chairman explained that the position of leader of the opposition had remained vacant following the disqualification of Shibli Faraz. He added that the delay in filling the post was due to ongoing judicial matters, which have now been resolved.

PTI slogans, desk-thumping in Senate

Following the announcement, PTI members banged their desks and raised slogans in support of the party’s founder. At the same time, both government and opposition members congratulated Raja Nasir Abbas, reflecting a mixed but charged atmosphere in the House.

The Question Hour was suspended to allow proceedings related to the appointment. Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar moved the motion, which was unanimously approved by the House.

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Addressing the Senate, Tarar congratulated Allama Raja Nasir Abbas on assuming the role. He expressed hope that political differences would remain within democratic limits and that the overall parliamentary atmosphere would remain constructive.

Sarcastic remarks from govt benches

During the session, government member Nasir Butt made sarcastic remarks, questioning whether the PTI had any eligible candidate for the opposition leader’s post. He also mockingly asked whether Allama Raja Nasir Abbas had joined the PTI, drawing reactions from opposition members.

Earlier, a meeting between government and opposition members with the Senate chairman was held, where all matters related to the appointment were settled.

The delegation included Allama Raja Nasir Abbas, Ali Zafar, Aun Abbas Bappi, and Falak Naz Chitrali, while Rana Sanaullah, Azam Nazir Tarar, and Tariq Fazal Chaudhry represented the government side.

Chairman reiterates legal compliance

Chairman Gilani reiterated that the appointment was made on the instructions of the Chair and through parliamentary leaders, ensuring full compliance with constitutional and legal requirements.

He said the completion of this process would help restore normal legislative functioning in the Senate.