Govt, opposition at odds over PAC chairmanship

Sharif warned govt against subjugating opposition on the issue.

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Federal govt and Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz-led (PML-N) opposition are at odds over appointment of chairman of Public Accounts Committee (PAC).

As per details garnered, federal govt has decided to appoint PAC chairman from the treasury benches whereas traditionally, this post has been held by the opposition.

Federal minister of information and broadcast Fawad Ch—while raising objection on the appointment of opposition leader—has made it overtly clear that PML-N couldn’t review audit objections raised during their tenure.

“Under charter of democracy signed between PML-N and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), opposition leader is awarded chairmanship of PAC”, revealed Fawad.

PML-N president and opposition leader in the National Assembly (NA) Shehbaz Sharif claimed PAC chairmanship is predominantly the prerogative of the opposition.

Responding to a question whether he would be the chairman of PAC, Shehbaz Sharif replied that it is custom that opposition leader enjoys PAC chairmanship. He said, “If Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) takes u-turn on it then I would avoid saying anything”.

Shehbaz inquired why federal govt feels intimidated by effective role of opposition. He warned govt against subjugating opposition on the issue.

“PAC chairman will be appointed as per traditions of the NA, not through browbeat”, cleared PML-N president.