Pakistan’s ex-PM Pervez Ashraf sworn in as NA speaker

PESHAWAR (Pajhwok): Former premier Raja Pervez Ashraf was elected unopposed as speaker of the National Assembly on Saturday.

Qasim Suri , facing a vote of no confidence from PML-N and allied parties, stood down as deputy speaker shortly before the session began.

The speaker’s office fell vacant on April 9 when Asad Qaiser resigned, declining to order voting on the no-confidence motion against then-prime minister Imran Khan.

PPP’s Pervaiz Ashraf was administered oath by PML-N’s Ayaz Sadiq, who was initially chairing the session.

A lone contender for the speaker’s office, Ashraf thanked party leaders for deeming him fit for the slot, the prime minister and members of the lower house.

“I consider it my duty not to let the voice of the opposition get suppressed,” remarked the incoming speaker, who stressed respect for the views of all lawmakers.

He cited a famous saying in English that the majority has its way, but the opposition must have its say.

While congratulating Ashraf, PM Shehbaz Sharif said the veteran PPP leader had been elected with the complete consensus of the house.

Before Ashraf was sworn in as the National Assembly’s 22^nd speaker, Sadiq announced that Suri had tendered his resignation.

mud