18th Speakers’ Conference: Strengthening Parliamentary Excellence
Consultation, or Shura, is a deeply rooted principle in Islamic teachings that embodies the democratic essence of collective decision-making. It emphasizes seeking collective wisdom, ensuring justice, and fostering unity. The Quran highlights its importance, stating: “And those who have responded to their master and established prayer and whose affair is [determined by] consultation among themselves, and they spend from what We have provided them” (Surah Ash-Shura, 42:38). This verse underscores the emphasis on dialogue and inclusive governance as fundamental to societal harmony.
The life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) provides timeless examples of Shura in practice. During critical moments like the Battle of Uhud and the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, the Prophet actively sought the counsel of his companions, valuing their insights and fostering a culture of collective wisdom. This practice ensured that decisions were not influenced by personal inclinations but guided by shared accountability and divine direction. It became a cornerstone of governance in the early Islamic state, promoting justice, inclusivity, and trust.
Shura aligns closely with modern principles of parliamentary democracy. In Pakistan, the National Assembly and Parliament serve as contemporary platforms for consultation, where representatives deliberate on matters of national importance. These institutions reflect the spirit of Shura, particularly in their role in legislation, policy-making, and oversight. However, their success hinges on the sincerity, transparency, and commitment to justice of those involved—values that are integral to Islamic governance.
In today’s polarized political climate, democratic institutions often struggle with challenges stemming from partisanship and erosion of trust. Such issues dilute the essence of consultation, reducing it to a procedural formality rather than a meaningful exchange of ideas. Islam, however, treats Shura as a moral and spiritual obligation. Leaders are held accountable not only to their people but also to Allah, emphasizing the need for humility, honesty, and a genuine commitment to public welfare.
For Pakistan, a country founded in the name of Islam, embracing the true spirit of Shura is both a moral imperative and a practical necessity. By fostering mutual respect, inclusivity, and purposeful dialogue, the National Assembly can bridge divides, build consensus, and better serve the aspirations of its people. Islamic history offers numerous examples of leaders who, guided by the principles of Shura, upheld justice and ensured the welfare of their communities. These examples remind us that consultation is not merely a procedural step but a path to societal harmony and progress.
The upcoming 18th Speakers’ Conference in Islamabad, from December 18 to 20, 2024, is a modern embodiment of Shura in governance. This prestigious event, hosted by Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, will gather presiding officers from Pakistan’s national and provincial legislatures. The conference aims to strengthen democratic processes through dialogue and collaboration, with a focus on shared challenges and legislative advancements. It provides a platform where legislative leaders can share best practices, discuss strategies for strengthening democratic institutions, and coordinate actions on matters of common interest.
Speaker Ayaz Sadiq’s role in arranging this conference cannot be overstated. His efforts ensure that the 18th Speakers’ Conference will not only be a landmark event for Pakistan but also a beacon of hope for parliamentary cooperation. The initiative comes after over a decade of the 17th Speakers’ Conference held in Islamabad on 13th-15th April, 2014, which was also hosted by the Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq.
Attendees of the 18th Speakers’ will include Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani, Chairman Senate of Pakistan; Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, Speaker of the Provincial Assembly of Punjab; Syed Awais Qadir Shah, Speaker of the Provincial Assembly of Sindh; Mr. Babar Saleem Swati, Speaker of the Provincial Assembly of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa; Capt. (R) Abdul Khaliq Khan Achakzai, Speaker of the Provincial Assembly of Balochistan; Mr. Nazir Ahmad, Speaker of the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly and Chaudhry Latif Akbar, Speaker of the Azad Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly, along with their respective parliamentary delegations. This conference is poised to set a new precedent for parliamentary collaboration in Pakistan, paving the way for a more effective, transparent, and inclusive legislative process.
In Pakistan, the tradition of holding the Speakers’ Conference commenced on 10th July, 1972 with the then Honorable Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan Mr. Fazal Elahi Chaudhry hosted the inaugural meet in Karachi. This marked a significant step in Pakistan’s parliamentary development, offering a forum for speakers of national and provincial assemblies to discuss challenges, strengthen democratic processes and promote inter-parliamentary cooperation.
The 18th Speakers’ Conference is set to build on this legacy with a comprehensive agenda devised through consultations with presiding officers across the country. Key objectives include institutionalizing the annual conference tradition, standardizing practices and procedures for parliamentary excellence, and fostering collaboration through a concurrent Secretaries’ Conference. The discussions will address pressing issues such as the review of the 18th Constitutional Amendment, institutional reforms, parliamentary accountability, transparency, and the integration of technology in legislative processes.
In the spirit of Shura, the 18th Speakers’ Conference serves as a reminder of the transformative power of consultation in addressing challenges, fostering unity, and advancing the collective welfare of society. It highlights the enduring relevance of Islamic principles in contemporary governance, offering a pathway to justice, harmony, and progress for Pakistan and its people.
