The KP Assembly has cited provisions of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Assembly (Powers, Immunities and Privileges) Act, 2026, in directing the inspector general of police to ensure the procedure is followed. The Assembly’s official website lists the 2026 law among its legislation. The law was passed on April 30 and came into force in May. An amendment to the legislation was subsequently passed in August and took effect on August 19. According to the Secretariat’s communication, authorities seeking to arrest or detain an MPA must obtain prior permission from the speaker. The requirement covers arrests on criminal charges as well as detention under an executive order. The relevant authority must state the reasons for the proposed arrest or detention and submit a formal application to the speaker using the prescribed form. The law also provides that the speaker may, in the public interest, request a police report or challan, or charge sheet, from the relevant officer. The speaker may also order an inquiry before the challan is submitted to court. The Secretariat has instructed the police chief to ensure compliance with the prescribed procedure in cases involving the arrest or detention of assembly members. Speaker Babar Saleem Swati had previously written to the provincial police chief regarding provisions governing the arrest of lawmakers, according to reports published this week. The development has drawn criticism from Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who shared the Assembly Secretariat’s communication on X. Naqvi questioned whether police would need the speaker’s permission if an MPA were accused of a serious criminal offence such as murder. Tesla Semi Electric truck deliveries begin after years of delays He also questioned whether the provision was consistent with the principle of equality before the law. In a sarcastic reference, he wrote, “Excellent… keep it up!” and questioned whether the arrangement represented the “State of Medina”. The minister’s comments were directed at the procedure outlined by the KP Assembly Secretariat and did not alter the Secretariat’s stated instructions. The issue follows earlier controversy over the 2026 privileges law. The KP Assembly amended the legislation in August after criticism over several provisions, including enhanced privileges for lawmakers. The official Assembly record lists the amendment as passed on August 7 and enforced from August 19. Post navigation Pakistan Economy Shehbaz highlights reforms and investment opportunities at UNGA Makkah Defence Agreement: Asim Munir and Saudi defence minister reaffirm joint security efforts
