The National Assembly has approved an amendment bill to the Elections Act 2017, allowing members of parliament to keep their assets secret.
Key Provisions
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar stated that under the bill, declaring a political party banned or handling floor-crossing issues can be taken to a constitutional court. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar opposed the bill, arguing it shifts election law matters from the Supreme Court to a constitutional court.
Controversy Over Statements
PPP’s Naveed Qamar expressed displeasure in the house over Khawaja Asif’s remarks on the 18th Amendment, accusing him of using the Gul Plaza fire as an excuse to insult it. Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar clarified that Khawaja Asif’s statement reflects his personal opinion, and all decisions require parliamentary consensus. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar noted that blame games occurred over Gul Plaza yesterday where lives were lost, urging prevention of future incidents and empowering local governments.
Bill Details
Following the approval of the bill presented by MNA Shazia Marri, Section 9 of the Elections Act was amended by replacing “Supreme” with “Federal Constitutional Court,” making the Elections Amendment Act 2026 immediately effective.
