ISLAMABAD – The Senate Secretariat has formally notified Raja Nasir Abbas as the new leader of the opposition, ending weeks of delay caused by legal and procedural issues.
The appointment was announced during a Senate session chaired by Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani. The notification, issued under the signature of the acting secretary, confirmed Raja Nasir Abbas as the opposition leader in the Upper House. Copies were sent to all senators, the President House, Prime Minister House, and the Leader of the House.
Parliamentary Support
Chairman Gilani confirmed that Raja Nasir Abbas enjoys the backing of 22 senators, fulfilling the required parliamentary strength. He emphasized that the appointment followed all legal regulations and Senate rules. The position had been vacant following the disqualification of Shibli Faraz, and judicial matters caused previous delays.
Senate Reactions
The announcement sparked mixed reactions in the Senate. PTI members banged desks and raised slogans supporting their party’s founder, while government and opposition members congratulated Raja Nasir Abbas. The Question Hour was temporarily suspended to allow proceedings related to his appointment.
Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar moved the motion, which was unanimously approved. Speaking on the floor, he congratulated Raja Nasir Abbas and hoped political differences would remain within democratic limits, maintaining a constructive parliamentary environment.
Political Exchanges
During the session, government member Nasir Butt made sarcastic remarks questioning whether the PTI had an eligible candidate for the opposition post and jokingly asked if Raja Nasir Abbas had joined PTI. Opposition members reacted strongly to these comments.
Earlier, a delegation, including Raja Nasir Abbas, Ali Zafar, Aun Abbas Bappi, and Falak Naz Chitrali, met with the Senate chairman along with government representatives to finalize the appointment. Chairman Gilani reiterated that the process fully complied with constitutional and legal requirements.
In other news read more about PM Shehbaz Sharif Departs for Switzerland to Attend World Economic Forum
The appointment of Raja Nasir Abbas is expected to restore normal legislative functioning in the Senate and strengthen parliamentary processes moving forward.
