Lawmakers file privilege motion against energy ministry over free electricity allegations

National assembly members Sunday expressed their grievances, asserting that they not only pay rent for their accommodations at the Parliament Lodges but also bear the costs of electricity and gas bills, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.  

In a recent uproar sparked by news circulating on print, electronic, and social media, allegations have emerged regarding parliamentarians supposedly enjoying free electricity.

The issue prompted assembly members to move a privilege motion against the Ministry of Energy.

They alleged that the Ministry of Energy did not deny the allegations leveled against them.

They approached the speaker Ayaz Sadiq demanding an immediate and clear rebuttal of what they termed as fake news.

In the motion, they held that they dutifully pay rent for their residences at the Parliament Lodges, along with their electricity and gas bills.

Lawmakers argued that the Ministry of Energy should have immediately denied such baseless allegations to prevent the spread of misinformation.

They emphasized that before participating in elections, they must submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC), confirming that all payments have been settled.

Despite fulfilling these obligations, parliamentarians lamented that they are still being unfairly targeted and maligned.

This sentiment was conveyed in a meeting with Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, where members highlighted the Ministry of Energy's silence on the matter as a grave oversight.

During the discussions, Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq assured the assembly members that their honor and dignity would not be compromised.

He also pledged to ensure that the respect and esteem of the parliamentarians are upheld.