Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmed Khan has strongly asserted that he will not allow the House to be turned into a spectacle, nor will he permit any vulgar gestures or disruptive behaviour within the assembly.

Addressing a press conference in Lahore on Monday, Malik Ahmed Khan spoke about the dignity of the assembly, constitutional authority, and the disqualification clauses in the Constitution.

Reacting sharply to objections raised over references filed against opposition lawmakers, he questioned, “Are those challenging the references in their right mind? If a prime minister can be disqualified for misstatement, why not those who make a mockery of the House?”

He went on to describe Articles 62 and 63 as remnants of dictatorship, saying, “These clauses have been used as weapons against democracy. If we wish, we should discard them entirely. Selective application of these provisions cannot be justified.”

Defending his constitutional position, the Speaker said, “No one can strip me of my constitutional authority. I have made every effort to run the House according to rules. The opposition has been given ample opportunity to speak — some have even said I give them too much time.”

Highlighting his long-standing legislative experience, Malik Ahmed Khan said he has been part of the assembly for over two decades, but never in that time has he witnessed budget speeches being allowed to complete.

He reiterated his opposition to Articles 62 and 63, stating that it is not rooted in any disqualification.

Referring to the Panama Papers judgment, he said, “The ruling in which Justice Asif Saeed Khosa empowered the Speaker to initiate disqualification proceedings is still cited today. If it was valid then, why not now?”

He stressed that maintaining order in the assembly is the Speaker’s constitutional duty.

“If there is chaos, no member will be able to express themselves. No one has the right to disrespect the sanctity of the House,” he stated firmly.

Addressing speculation about political maneuvering, Malik Ahmed Khan clarified, “Neither have I contacted any political party, nor is there any plan at present to remove the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government. However, in politics, nothing is final.”

He questioned the one-sided criticism directed at him, saying, “Was it not everyone’s responsibility to hear my version too? My focus is entirely on how to run the assembly effectively. I am a political person, and I do not believe in depriving anyone of their right to representation.”

Reiterating his firm stance, the Speaker concluded, “The assembly is not a protest arena. It holds sanctity. I will not allow any obscene gestures or disorder in the House.”