By Asghar Ali Mubarak
ISLAMABAD: An opposition delegation comprising a joint committee of senators and members of the National Assembly met Speaker Ayaz Sadiq in Islamabad on Friday to raise concerns over what they described as restrictions on family visits to imprisoned PTI founder Imran Khan.
The meeting reflected mounting tensions between the ruling and opposition benches, as lawmakers sought to draw attention to the perceived hardships faced by Khan and his family. During the discussions, PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Ali emphasized what he said was an ongoing obstacle preventing Khan’s relatives from meeting him in prison.
His intervention appeared aimed at pressing the Speaker to intervene and ensure that family access was restored, framing the matter as a question of both legal rights and humanitarian concern. Following the meeting, Speaker Sadiq underlined his longstanding commitment to dialogue, telling reporters that political disputes could only be resolved through negotiation rather than confrontation.
His remarks suggested a cautious effort to maintain a neutral stance amid escalating political friction. PTI leader Asad Qaiser, speaking outside Parliament, said the opposition had delivered a “clear message” that the appointment of the Leader of the Opposition should be completed without further delay. He added that the delegation had also conveyed its concerns regarding restrictions placed on senior PTI figures seeking to meet Khan.
Qaiser warned that if such attitudes persisted, the opposition would challenge the smooth functioning of Parliament. He further indicated that the joint committee had agreed on a coordinated strategy within the House, signaling a more assertive posture in the coming days.
