ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), a key ally of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), staged a walkout from the National Assembly on Friday in protest against a recent statement by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

The walkout took place during a session chaired by Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, with PPP lawmakers leaving the house in protest.

Speaking on the floor, PPP leader Naveed Qamar said the party had earlier lodged its protest and held talks with the government, but “the situation on the ground remains unchanged.”

“We cannot remain part of this house until the situation improves. We are walking out of the assembly as a form of protest,” Qamar stated.

Later, government members persuaded the PPP leadership to return to the session, and the party lawmakers rejoined the National Assembly proceedings.

Earlier, Maryam Nawaz, while addressing an event in Lahore a day earlier, had strongly criticized her political opponents, warning that she would not remain silent if anyone spoke against Punjab.

She further said that during the floods she was lectured about seeking international aid, but she would never ask her people to beg with a bowl in hand. “I will not let our dignity be compromised, and I will not apologize to anyone,” she asserted.