Raja Nasir Abbas calls KP governor’s rule a pre-planned move

Senate Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas on Tuesday accused the federal government of holding insincere negotiations with the opposition, alleging that the decision to impose governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had been made before the talks ended.

The Senate took up the issue of emergency rule and the federal government’s decision to impose governor’s rule in the province. The government introduced the measures on Sunday under Articles 232 and 234 of the Constitution, citing worsening law and order and an alleged lack of cooperation from the provincial administration in counterterrorism efforts.

Speaking during a Senate session chaired by Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, Abbas said the negotiations had been meaningless because the government had already decided its course of action. He maintained that the opposition had shown flexibility by withdrawing its demand for a meeting with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, but the government had failed to reciprocate.

Abbas said the opposition wanted to consult Imran Khan about the prevailing global situation. He questioned the government’s commitment to political dialogue, arguing that denying opposition leaders access to a detained party founder undermined efforts to resolve political differences.

He warned that imposing governor’s rule could deepen political tensions and weaken efforts to restore peace in K-P. He also questioned the message being sent to young people in the province, saying that restricting political activity and limiting access to legal remedies could push people away from democratic processes.

The opposition leader further cautioned that statements reportedly urging residents to leave their homes could have unintended consequences. He argued that policies introduced in the name of restoring order might increase frustration and contribute to further unrest and militancy instead of addressing the root causes of insecurity.

Drawing a comparison with former military ruler Pervez Musharraf, Abbas questioned why a government operating under a democratic system could not tolerate political dissent. He also alleged that PTI lawmakers from the National Assembly and provincial assemblies were being abducted.

Despite his criticism, Abbas said the political crisis could still be resolved through dialogue and corrective measures. He urged the federal government to withdraw governor’s rule, warning that the decision would not guarantee lasting peace and could have serious consequences for the country.

“Peace cannot be established through such measures. Pakistan will suffer the consequences,” he said.

Earlier, the Senate session began with prayers for those who lost their lives in the railway incident in Multan, led by Abbas. The house also approved a motion to defer the question hour.

The Senate subsequently announced its panel of presiding officers, comprising Senators Shahadat Ahsan, Manzoor Ahmed and Abdul Qadir.