Islamabad, January 20, 2026: Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani on Tuesday officially notified Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) chief and PTI-backed Senator Allama Raja Nasir Abbas as the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate.
“In pursuance of sub-rule (3) of Rule 16 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Senate, 2012, the chairman Senate has been pleased to declare Senator Raja Nasir Abbas as Leader of the Opposition in the Senate, with immediate effect,” the notification issued by the Senate Secretariat read.
The position had remained vacant since August 2025, following the disqualification of the former opposition leader, Shibli Faraz, by the Election Commission of Pakistan over convictions related to the May 9, 2023 riots. This development comes a week after Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-e-Pakistan (TTAP) chief Mehmood Khan Achakzai was appointed as Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly.
Addressing the upper house after his appointment, Senator Raja Nasir reaffirmed his loyalty to jailed PTI founding chairman Imran Khan and pledged to uphold principles without compromise. He called on politicians and parliamentarians to prioritize the needs of ordinary citizens over elite interests, highlighting issues such as the affordability of medicine, electricity, and education. He emphasized the need for legislation and policies that directly benefit the public.
Raja Nasir also stressed the importance of freedom of expression, urging authorities to allow citizens to voice their concerns without fear. He said resolving the political crisis required the release of the PTI chairman and called on Parliament to advocate for the release of political prisoners.
Congratulating the new opposition leader, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah called for collective efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s political system. “I congratulate Allama Sahib on becoming the opposition leader and hope he will uphold the highest traditions of this House,” he said.
Sanaullah also reflected on post-election disputes, drawing parallels with the 2018 elections and urging lawmakers to move beyond historical grievances. He stressed the need for cooperation in improving the system, strengthening the Election Commission of Pakistan, and refining parliamentary rules.
