Speaker says public address was necessary amid ‘overbearing’ attacks, insists impartiality intact
Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir has said his decision to publicly address recent criticisms was driven by what he described as an increasingly “ridiculous and overbearing” situation, even as he maintained that his ability to preside impartially over the House remains unchanged.
Speaking candidly, Nadir acknowledged that he has traditionally avoided engaging in public commentary on the internal business of the National Assembly. “I’ve refused in the past to conduct the business of the House in public. Stay away from it,” he said.
However, the Speaker explained that circumstances had shifted, prompting him to respond directly to what he described as unchecked attacks. Drawing an analogy, Nadir referenced a Kenny Rogers song about restraint giving way to necessary action. “Sometimes you have to act if you’re a man,” he said, explaining that the moment had reached that point.
According to Nadir, the public discourse had crossed a line, with individuals feeling emboldened to make sweeping claims about the National Assembly and its members, often amplified by social media. “One person feeling that they can do and say anything about anybody, the House, without anyone taking [a stand], because we frightened the influences on social media,” he said.
He added that when he chose to respond, the reaction was swift. “The moment you speak back, now you’re the devil. But I’ll be the devil in this instance,” Nadir stated.
Despite the pushback, the Speaker rejected claims that his response compromises his neutrality. “Can I still be impartial? Of course I can be impartial,” he said, stressing that his role is governed by clear legal and procedural frameworks.
“I have the rules. I have the Constitution. I have the Standing Orders,” Nadir said, noting that his record shows he has acted against both ministers and ordinary Members of Parliament when those rules are breached.
He further asserted that accountability applies equally, including to himself. “If I’m stepping outside of the rules, anyone can bring me,” he said.
Nadir said his approach remains rooted in serving without bias. “I intend to serve to the best of my ability without fear or favour,” he added, expressing confidence that the standards he has established during his tenure will endure.
“I have no doubt, having served more than a lifetime and a half in this nation, that I will continue to ensure that what I have established in those four to five years are built upon,” the Speaker said.
