Ali Hussain: Now is the time for PNC MPs to become independent; failure to do so indicates personal interests

Lawyer Ali Hussain stated on Tuesday that the current political climate presents an opportune moment for ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) lawmakers to exercise independence and act in accordance with the will of the public.

In the referendum held alongside last Saturday’s elections—where the government proposed merging parliamentary and presidential elections—approximately 70 percent of voters voted ‘No’. Many widely interpreted the outcome as a reflection of waning public support for the administration at the mid-point of its term.

At the same time, controversy has emerged following the leak of an audio recording in which PNC lawmaker Asma Rasheed expressed dissatisfaction with the government. Shortly thereafter, two of her children were dismissed from senior government positions.

Commenting on these developments in a post on X, Ali Hussain asserted that lawmakers should free themselves, adding that there is no need to fear under the present circumstances. Elaborating on his remarks to Sun, he suggested that if a referendum were held on the constitutional amendment requiring MPs to lose their seats for floor crossing, it would also likely be rejected by a significant majority of the public.

Noting that the case challenging the amendment has been “parked” at the Supreme Court for an extended period, Ali Hussain said this indicates that the justices are aware that it is wrong.

“They are concluding all other cases once submitted, yet this particular matter remains pending,” Ali said.

Ali Hussain stressed that lawmakers should not lose their seats for defying party directives or a three-line whip, arguing that lawmakers must retain the freedom to act in accordance with their conscience within Parliament.

He expressed confidence that, should an MP lose their seat under the current framework and appeal to the Supreme Court, the court would likely rule in their favor because the judiciary has observed the shortcomings of government policies, as reflected in the outcome of the recent referendum.

In light of these developments, he maintained that lawmakers have no reason to feel intimidated. He further alleged that those who continue to comply under such conditions may be motivated by personal interests rather than genuine concern over constitutional consequences.

A constitutional challenge filed by Ali Hussain seeking to annul the anti-defection amendment—which mandates the loss of parliamentary seats for MPs who switch parties or are expelled—has remained pending before the Supreme Court for over a year.

At the time the case was filed, the state, represented by the Attorney General’s Office, argued that the Supreme Court lacked jurisdiction to hear the matter. Nevertheless, the Court accepted the case. Subsequently, three justices associated with the bench faced disciplinary measures: Husnu Al Suood resigned, while Dr. Azmiralda Zahir and Mahaz Ali Zahir were removed from office.