Defence Minister Asif Invites PTI to Sign Charter of Democracy
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif extended an invitation to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to sign the Charter of Democracy, stating that any necessary improvements could be incorporated into the document. Speaking in the National Assembly on June 24, 2026, after the Opposition Leader's remarks, Asif recalled that both the PML-N and PPP had agreed to the charter, learning from the past to strengthen democracy and parliamentary norms.
Asif asserted that PTI caused the greatest damage to the parliamentary system and democratic norms. He also highlighted the sacrifices of the people in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), noting that Kashmiris express love for Pakistan while sacrificing their lives.
Rana Sana Ullah Rejects Claims of Inaction on AJK
Responding to JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman's remarks, Advisor on Political Affairs Rana Sana Ullah Khan rejected the impression that no effort was made to address the AJK situation through dialogue. He emphasized that detailed negotiations were held with the action committee on their 38 demands, with progress on each. Sana Ullah mentioned relief on electricity tariffs and wheat, provision of MRI machines at major hospitals, and funds for improving electricity transmission infrastructure.
The Advisor expressed the government's commitment to AJK's development and welfare. He said the demand to abolish twelve refugee seats in the AJK legislative assembly was illegal and unconstitutional, stressing that only the AJK assembly could decide, not any armed group. Welcoming JUI-F's mediation offer, Sana Ullah urged the Action Committee to first withdraw its call for a long march.
Minister Chaudhary: AJK Elections on Time, Foreign Elements Behind Violence
Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhary said elections in AJK will be held on time. He regretted the action committee's resort to violence, citing credible evidence that foreign elements are behind it, aiming to disrupt peaceful elections as per the constitution. He added that the committee had closed the doors of negotiations.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari Calls for Engagement, Local Government Elections
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari emphasized engaging with the Azad Kashmir government and protestors. He called for local government elections nationwide, including Islamabad and Punjab. Bilawal noted the PPP is forming a coalition government in Gilgit Baltistan and expressed desire to hold local government elections there within 90 days.
Finance Minister Aurangzeb on Budget Passage and Transparency
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb congratulated the House on passing the budget for the next financial year. He appreciated contributions from ministries and divisions in the budget-making process. Aurangzeb stated that for the first time in Pakistan's history, audit reports related to the federation are being presented within the same financial year, reflecting the government's commitment to transparency and parliamentary oversight.
Aurangzeb laid before the House the Schedule of Authorized Expenditure 2026-27, Schedule of Supplementary Authorized Expenditure 2024-25 and 2025-26, and Schedule of Excess Authorized Expenditure 2016-17 and 2024-25, under Article 83 of the Constitution. The House passed the Federal Board of Revenue Amendment Bill, 2026, moved by Aurangzeb, and approved Supplementary Demands for Grants for 2024-25 and 2025-26. The House was then prorogued.
