Opposition MPs stage walkout from Senate

The members of the Opposition in the Upper House of the Parliament staged a walkout on Friday to protest the non-seriousness of the government members and ministers, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

The Senate session resumed on Friday at the Parliament House, with Deputy Chairman Sardar Syedal Khan Nasir presiding, as the debate on the Finance Bill 2025 entered its sixth day.

The House resumed its proceedings at 10:56 am, during which various committee reports were presented. The House also continued the ongoing budget debate for the sixth consecutive day.

The deliberations were held on the motion moved by Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb on June 10, seeking the Senate’s recommendations on the Finance Bill, including the Annual Budget Statement, in accordance with Article 73 of the Constitution.

This marks the sixth consecutive sitting of the Upper House devoted to the discussion on the federal budget for the fiscal year 2025–26.

As the Opposition members stage a walkout, Senate Deputy Chairman directed to call in the ministers and bring back the opposition members.

Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry then appeared in the House and the normal proceeding moved on.

Leader of the Opposition in the Senate Shibli Faraz said it’s a matter of pleasure that the minister for parliamentary affairs has come to the House. “Either it’s budget or a normal session it’s the responsibility of the government to complete the quorum. If they look towards the Opposition for completing the quorum then the issue is dead.”

Tariq Fazal Chaudhry responded that they accept Opposition’s role in the House. “Anything the Opposition members have said about the budget has been noted and responded. Salaries and solar tax revised.

Later, the chair adjourned the House to meet again at 10:30 am on Saturday.

Reporter Usman Khan