LAHORE, Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan has said that the leadership of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supports the rights of smaller provinces.
Speaking to reporters at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Khan also discussed Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s use of an aircraft during a private trip.
Maryam Nawaz Paid Travel Costs, Speaker Says
Khan said Maryam Nawaz paid the cost of using the aircraft from her own pocket during her private visit.
He said Maryam leads Punjab, a province with around 120 million people.
According to Khan, long-distance travel can require an aircraft.
However, he said officials can debate the procedure for using an official aircraft.
Khan added that authorities should check whether the aircraft use followed the applicable rules and regulations.
Speaker Questions PTI March Talks
Khan also questioned the basis for talks between the PML-N, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and PTI over the latter’s long march.
He asked whether such talks addressed a public issue.
Khan said Jamaat-e-Islami had raised a legitimate issue about reducing petroleum prices.
He added that the government should hold talks with the party on that matter.
Khan Calls May 9 Incidents Criminal Acts
Khan said the May 9, 2023 incidents should not fall under political negotiations.
He described the attacks as criminal acts rather than political activity.
He referred to the burning of a corps commander’s residence and attacks on 29 military cantonments.
Khan also mentioned the burning of buildings during the unrest.
He said setting the Pakistani flag on fire could not receive political forgiveness.
Khan has previously described the May 9 attacks as attacks on national institutions.
Debate Over Aircraft Use
The speaker said the use of an aircraft can remain open to discussion.
However, he stressed that officials must follow the relevant rules and regulations.
He said authorities should examine the procedure and determine whether it complied with those rules.
