- President Arif Alvi’s statement that he hadn’t signed two crucial bills led to political upheaval in Pakistan.
- Alvi blamed his staff for failing to return the bills within the stipulated timeframe, causing confusion.
- Political parties demanded explanations, raising questions about the legislative process and the president’s authority.
President Dr. Arif Alvi caused turmoil after stating he hadn’t signed the Official Secrets (Amendment) Bill and Pakistan Army (Amendment) Bill, blaming his staff for the confusion. He denied giving assent to the bills but admitted his staff failed to return them to parliament within the stipulated timeframe. He accused his staff of deceiving him and concealing the bills’ non-return.
Alvi revealed that he had repeatedly inquired about the bills and was assured each time that they were returned. He expressed regret for the situation. It was clarified that no forgery had taken place with the bills’ signatures.
Officials responsible for not obeying the president’s orders could face action under the Government Servants (Efficiency and Discipline) Rules, 1973. The caretaker government reminded the president of the options to either give assent or refer the matter to parliament.
As God is my witness, I did not sign Official Secrets Amendment Bill 2023 & Pakistan Army Amendment Bill 2023 as I disagreed with these laws. I asked my staff to return the bills unsigned within stipulated time to make them ineffective. I confirmed from them many times that…
— Dr. Arif Alvi (@ArifAlvi) August 20, 2023
Political parties criticized the president, demanding his resignation if he couldn’t control his staff. They supported the caretaker government’s stance, stating that after 10 days, if the president doesn’t act, the bill becomes law.
The Senate Secretariat published the acts in the gazette, deeming them assented to by the president. The bills covered matters related to the Pakistan Army’s enhanced scope and protection of sensitive information.
President Alvi’s claim of not signing important bills due to his staff’s actions caused political chaos and demands for resignation. The controversy brought attention to the legislative process and the roles of various authorities.