Islamabad: The PPP and PML-N requested President Arif Alvi’s resignation Sunday after he denied signing two critical army and secrets laws.
President Alvi shockingly declared he “disagreed with these laws”. He did not sign the Official Secrets Act and Pakistan Army Act amendments.
Alvi wrote on Twitter that he had directed his office staff to return the bills unsigned before the deadline to make them “uneffective”.
“They promised me they returned several times. Today, I discovered that my staff undermined my will and command. Allah forgives because He knows everything. But I pray for forgiveness from those affected “added the president.
President Alvi signed the Official Secrets Act and Army Act Amendment Bill, adopted by the National Assembly and Senate, on Saturday, making them legal.
PTI Chairman Imran Khan arrested in the cypher case shortly after the bill passed. Today, reports said that Asad Umar arrested in connection with the arrest of party leader Shah Mahmood Qureshi from his home in the evening.
PPP spokesperson Faisal Karim Kundi called the incident “unfortunate” and lamented. That the president apologised “24 hours after it was reported on the media that he did”.
“Such a guy should not be president. This person is unaware. He has no idea who bypassed him “PPP leader.
PPP Vice President Sherry Rehman said the development casts doubt on Alvi’s presidency.
Rehman asked, “Is he trying to say that someone else signed the bills under his nose?” If so, the president should resign.
Ishaq Dar’s Response
PML-N leader and former finance minister Ishaq Dar called Alvi’s statement “unbelievable” on X, urging for his resignation.
“Minimum morality warrants Alvi sb to resign, having failed to run his office effectively, efficiently and as per Rules of Business,” the finance minister, whose term ended this month, stated.
Official work on files and implementation ensured—such comments only reflect gallery play. God save us!” ex-finance czar said.
The Ministry of Law and Justice stated that under Article 75 of the Constitution, the president can accept or reject a bill.
“There is no third under Article 75,” the ministry said, noting that President Alvi did not meet his duties under the provision.
The ministry said the president purposely delayed signing the bills, which was against the Constitution.
“If the president wished to return the money, he should have included his observations. He might have returned the bills like before.”
The ministry was concerned that the president defamed his workers instead of taking responsibility.
