Islamabad, May 19, 2025: National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Monday downplayed the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) reported plans to initiate a no-confidence motion against him, asserting that such efforts would not gain traction within the House.
Speaking to journalists during an informal interaction in Islamabad, the speaker said he was aware of discussions within the opposition about a potential move against him. However, he appeared unfazed. “If they wish to proceed, they are free to do so,” he said. “I have always conducted myself impartially as Speaker, and even within their own ranks, they may struggle to secure support.”
According to PTI insiders, the party is weighing no-confidence motions against both Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Speaker Ayaz Sadiq. The proposal was reportedly discussed during a recent meeting between incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan, his legal team, and family members.
Khan was briefed on the opposition’s evolving strategy, which includes collaboration with allied parties such as the Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP). PkMAP leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai has publicly withdrawn confidence from the current speaker. Sources say Khan granted full authority to party leaders to move forward with the plan at a time of their choosing.
Amid the backdrop of the recent military confrontation with India, Speaker Sadiq called for political restraint and national unity. “This is a time to stand together,” he said. “The bravery and sacrifice of our armed forces have reminded us of our shared responsibility to defend the nation. Political point-scoring must be set aside.”
Responding to the reports, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said the opposition was free to move a no-confidence motion, but warned that such a move would backfire. “It will only expose their actual strength in the National Assembly,” he said. “If motions like these are justified now, then Asad Qaiser should have faced one a hundred times during his tenure.”
The defence minister also dismissed the idea that the government was under pressure, saying the administration enjoys “ideal cooperation” with the military.
In contrast to internal discussions, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan publicly denied any immediate plans to bring a no-trust motion. “These reports are baseless,” he told reporters. “There is no such motion under consideration, nor has any decision been taken. Right now, it’s not even on our agenda.”
Lightening the tone, Gohar added, “There’s a ceasefire with India—there should be one among ourselves too.”
Former Speaker and senior PTI leader Asad Qaiser acknowledged that the party was considering both the speaker and the prime minister as potential targets of no-confidence moves. However, he confirmed that action has been paused temporarily due to national sensitivities.
“In light of the recent hostilities with India, we’ve delayed our decision to avoid misinterpretation. But the option remains open and will be exercised at the appropriate time,” he said.
