The newly elected House of the Sindh Assembly convened on Saturday, marking the beginning of a potentially tumultuous legislative term. While 147 members took oath, including the re-elected Speaker Agha Siraj Durrani, 13 opposition members opted not to participate, highlighting the ongoing political tension in the province.

Opposition Abstains, Protests Erupt:

• Nine PTI-backed independent candidates, one member of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), and three from the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) chose to abstain from the oath, citing concerns over the election results and the delayed notification of reserved seats.
• This decision aligns with protests staged by opposition parties like GDA, PTI, and JI outside the assembly. Police deployed heavy security measures, including water cannons and arrests, to control the demonstrations.
• Sindh Assembly Speaker Durrani criticized the protests, calling them an “insult” to the House.

PPP Holds Strong Lead, Elections for Speaker and Deputy Speaker Up Next:

• The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) secured a commanding majority with 114 seats, followed by the MQM with 36 and smaller representations from GDA and JI.
• However, the Election Commission’s halt on notifications for reserved seats has caused friction, with GDA and JI members expressing their displeasure by abstaining from the oath.
• The crucial election for the positions of Speaker and Deputy Speaker is scheduled for Sunday, with nominations accepted until Saturday evening.

Focus on Collaboration and Public Welfare:

• Chief Minister nominee Murad Ali Shah emphasized the need for collaboration to address the nation’s challenges. He vowed to take the oath despite protests and acknowledged the right to peaceful demonstrations.
• Speaker nominee Owais Qadir Shah echoed the call for cooperation, promising smooth operation of the House and legislation focused on public welfare.

Security Tightened, Traffic Disrupted:

• Over 1,000 security personnel were deployed around the assembly, with strict measures in place to prevent disruptions.
• A ban on sit-in protests in the Red Zone has been enforced, along with a traffic plan implemented to manage congestion caused by the assembly session and protests.

Uncertainties Remain:

• The abstention of opposition members and ongoing protests raise questions about the upcoming election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker.
• The delayed notification for reserved seats and potential legal challenges could further complicate the political landscape.
• Despite the challenges, the newly elected House of the Sindh Assembly has officially taken its first steps, setting the stage for a potentially eventful and contentious legislative term.

For analysis and deep discussions.