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Published 26 Mar, 2025 12:16pm

Senate faces turbulent year amid protests, approves 47 bills, 18 resolutions

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif addresses a special session of Senate of Pakistan to mark the Golden Jubilee of the Senate. APP

The Upper House of Parliament faced a challenging year, approving 47 bills and 18 resolutions despite frequent disruptions caused by opposition protests.

The parliamentary year in the Senate was overshadowed by disturbances and demonstrations, which hindered crucial legislative progress and decision-making.

Government officials argue that, despite these interruptions, the Senate successfully enacted important legislation aimed at benefiting the country.

However, persistent protests from the opposition have negatively impacted the House’s overall performance.

Throughout the year, 65 sessions were conducted, many of which were marked by intense opposition protests on various issues. The intensity of these demonstrations escalated at different points during the year.

Among the significant legislation passed by the Senate were the 26th Constitutional Amendment, the Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Act, amendments concerning the number of Supreme Court judges, the Islamabad High Court Amendment Bill, and the Pakistan Army Amendment Bill.

Chairman of the Senate, Yousaf Raza Gillani, also took part in an unofficial protest regarding the non-implementation of production orders for Senator Ejaz Chaudhry.

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While government senators expressed satisfaction with the performance of the Upper House, the opposition, which remained in a state of protest throughout the year, continues to express its discontent.

Critics, including Hamid Khan and Abdul Qadir, decried the situation, stating that despite the passage of significant legislation, the House’s effectiveness was severely compromised by the ongoing uproar and intense protests from the opposition.

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