Islamabad (October 2025): Tensions arose in the National Assembly on Wednesday after the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), an allied party of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), staged a walkout in protest against a statement made by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
The session, chaired by Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, witnessed heated moments when PPP lawmakers announced their decision to leave the assembly floor.
PPP’s Protest
PPP senior leader Naveed Qamar addressed the House before walking out, stating:
“We had already protested on this issue and later held talks with the government’s team. However, the situation on the ground remains unchanged. Nothing has improved, and under such circumstances, we cannot continue to be part of this House. As a mark of protest, we are staging a walkout.”
Following the protest, government members approached PPP lawmakers to pacify them and eventually convinced them to return to the session.
Background to the Dispute
The controversy stems from a speech delivered by Maryam Nawaz in Lahore a day earlier. In her address, the Punjab CM took a hard stance against political opponents, asserting:
“If anyone speaks against Punjab, I will not remain silent as Chief Minister.”
She further remarked that during the floods, she was advised to seek international aid but refused, declaring she would never let her people beg or compromise their dignity. Maryam also stressed she would not apologize to anyone for standing firm on her stance.
Journalists’ Protest Adds to Political Tension
The PPP’s protest was not the only expression of dissatisfaction in the capital. On Tuesday, journalists also staged a walkout from the press gallery of the National Assembly in solidarity with their colleagues in Islamabad.
The move came after police reportedly stormed into the National Press Club, where they allegedly assaulted journalists and caused damage to property. The incident sparked outrage across the country, with journalist unions and media organizations condemning the attack. They have demanded a transparent investigation into the matter.
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A Growing Political Divide
The PPP’s walkout highlights the growing strain between coalition partners. While PML-N leaders attempted to downplay the incident by reconciling with PPP members on the spot, analysts suggest the disagreement reflects deeper political frustrations within the ruling coalition.
With journalists also raising their voices against state actions, the political climate in Islamabad continues to remain tense, showing signs of widening cracks in governance and alliance management.
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