Lahore, January 17, 2026: Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Saturday said that no statement against the judiciary, the Armed Forces of Pakistan, or the role of judges would be allowed on the floor of the National Assembly, as such remarks fall outside the constitutional and legal framework.
Speaking during a visit to the National College of Arts (NCA), the Speaker emphasized that any statement against the Armed Forces of Pakistan is unacceptable. He categorically stated that only discussions strictly in line with the Constitution and the Rules of Procedure of the National Assembly would be permitted, adding that no one would be allowed to speak against Pakistan in the House.
Sardar Ayaz Sadiq clarified that he is neither part of the government nor the opposition, and as Speaker, he performs his duties impartially in accordance with the Constitution. He acknowledged that protest is a democratic right of every citizen but stressed that it must remain peaceful. There is no room, he said, for arson, damage to life and property, or vandalism. He termed the use of sticks and weapons as alarming and warned that such elements pose a serious threat to the rule of law.
The Speaker said he holds regular consultations with the Prime Minister and noted that the Prime Minister has never restrained him from exercising his constitutional authority. He reiterated that no individual would be allowed to use the National Assembly platform to speak against the state.
Commenting on the national situation, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq said Pakistan’s economy is gradually strengthening, which he described as clear evidence of improving economic stability. He also highlighted Pakistan’s strong and cordial relations with key friendly countries, including the United States, China, Russia, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia.
He said that illegal elements exist in every country and stressed that combating them is a shared responsibility of both the state and the public to steer the country towards development and prosperity.
Referring to his visit to NCA, the Speaker described the institution as a prestigious centre of higher learning with a unique national and international identity. He appreciated the research-based creative work of NCA students and said the youth studying there are a valuable national asset, achieving remarkable success in various fields.
