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Hong Kong Legislators Embark on Beijing Study Trip
PoliticsSCMP1mo ago

Hong Kong Legislators Embark on Beijing Study Trip

Hong Kong's Legislative Council members have departed for Beijing on a week-long study trip focused on national affairs. This visit comes as discussions continue on Hong Kong's five-year plan, emphasizing the city's unique strengths.

US States Target PBMs to Lower Drug Prices
PoliticsThe Independent2mo ago

US States Target PBMs to Lower Drug Prices

Legislators across the U.S. are attempting to reduce prescription drug costs by regulating the large companies, known as Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), that handle drug coverage for health insurers.

Uddhav Thackeray Summons Legislators Amid Defection Rumors
PoliticsTimes of India2mo ago

Uddhav Thackeray Summons Legislators Amid Defection Rumors

Uddhav Thackeray has summoned Shiv Sena (UBT) legislators for a meeting on June 22, amidst rumors of an impending 'Operation Tiger' that could see seven MPs from his faction defect to the Shinde camp. The move comes as speculation about further defections intensifies.

South Korean Local Elections Reveal Trends
WorldKorea Herald2mo ago

South Korean Local Elections Reveal Trends

Local elections for mayors, governors, and legislators were held in South Korea on June 3. These elections are being analyzed to determine if they reveal emerging trends or confirm existing patterns in the country's democratic landscape.

Congress Challenges Rejection of Meenakshi Natarajan's Rajya Sabha Nomination
PoliticsTimes of Indiahindustan-timesindian-express+1ndtv2mo ago4 sources

Congress Challenges Rejection of Meenakshi Natarajan's Rajya Sabha Nomination

The Congress party is challenging the Election Commission's rejection of Meenakshi Natarajan's nomination for a Rajya Sabha seat in Madhya Pradesh, calling the decision illegal and partisan. The BJP claims the rejection was due to issues with papers from Telangana and foreseeing an inevitable defeat for Natarajan.

Leviste Faces Lawsuit, Criticism Over Power Franchise Claims
Politicsinquirer3mo ago

Leviste Faces Lawsuit, Criticism Over Power Franchise Claims

Legislators criticized Leviste for making baseless claims in a privilege speech, which was followed by Garin filing a lawsuit against Leviste and SPSB executives concerning an idle power franchise. The legal action and criticism stem from Leviste's statements regarding the unused power franchise.

Lawmakers Question Leviste's Vote-Buying and Bribery Claims
Politicsinquirer3mo ago

Lawmakers Question Leviste's Vote-Buying and Bribery Claims

Jose Antonio Leviste faced scrutiny from lawmakers after claiming widespread vote-buying in the House and alleging a P1 billion offer to Vilma Santos to withdraw from a gubernatorial race. Senators Leila de Lima and Ralph Recto responded to his statements, with some legislators dismissing his claims as hearsay.

Accord Party Denies Backing Joint Presidential Ticket in Nigeria
WorldAPBBCAl Jazeera+12le-figaroindex-hrn1-serbiaaktuality-skdanasvijesti-menewsbeastDaily Nation+4 more4mo ago15 sources

Accord Party Denies Backing Joint Presidential Ticket in Nigeria

Nigeria's Accord Party has publicly denied reports of its support for a joint presidential ticket, demanding its name be removed from any such endorsements. This political development comes amidst various other domestic news stories across Nigeria, including crime arrests and public health initiatives.

Legislators grumble about PM’s call to forgo pay
PoliticsDawn5mo ago

Legislators grumble about PM’s call to forgo pay

• Parliamentarians issued form to choose salary donation • Say cuts acceptable for national causes, but not by ‘dictation’ ISLAMABAD: Some parliamentarians from both sides of the aisle are branding Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent order regarding the forgoing of their two months’ salaries as “direct interference in constitutional matters”, creating a divide among lawmakers over the announced deduction. A senior legislator, who did not wish to be named, told Dawn on Sunday that parliamen...

PU student-lecturer ratio far above CBSE norms: MLC
Politicshindu5mo ago

PU student-lecturer ratio far above CBSE norms: MLC

On lecturers’ petitions, K. Vivekananda raises the issue in the Council, seeks details on the criteria followed to identify surplus lecturer posts in colleges; Minister Madhu Bangarappa says the issue will be discussed with legislators representing the teachers’ and graduates’ constituencies before taking a decision

Parliamentarians’ attendance
PoliticsDawn6mo ago

Parliamentarians’ attendance

REPORTS on the attendance of parliamentarians during sessions almost invariably evoke much interest among citizens. Although the average attendance in the National Assembly has been hovering around 60 per cent for the last many years and the citizenry seems to have made its peace with that, there are statistics which sometimes shock the people. For example, a Fafen report on parliamentarians’ attendance during the 23rd National Assembly session held from Jan 12 to Jan 22 this year indicates that 47 or 14pc members remained absent throughout the session and didn’t attend even a single sitting; 276 or 83pc of the total 332 members skipped at least one session. Similar statistics about the 22nd session indicate that about 70pc of the absent members didn’t seek prior leave from the House. The system of taking attendance is such that a person marked present might not have been there throughout the sitting and his/her presence for even a fraction of the sitting may be marked as present. Given the fact that the average duration of a sitting ranges from two to three hours (it was two hours during the first year of the present National Assembly), a member attending the sitting may have been present only for a few minutes. The absence of members from a sitting significantly impacts parliamentary proceedings. Our parliamentary system requires the presence of at least 25pc of the total members which constitutes the quorum. The Assembly proceedings are stopped after a member points out a lack of quorum and the subsequent head count confirms that the minimum required members are not present. A Pildat report indicates that during the past (15th) National Assembly, lack of quorum was pointed out in 105 (23pc) of sittings, and subsequently, 72 or 16pc of the sittings had to be adjourned on this basis. The abrupt termination of a day’s proceedings impacts the productivity of the Assembly as the day’s agenda (order of the day) is left incomplete. During the five years of the 15th National Assembly, on average, less than 50pc (49.47pc to be exact) of the agenda items could be taken up by the Assembly. Ministers’ absence also impacts the quality of proceedings and some of the agenda items have to be deferred because the relevant minister is not present. During the 23rd session of the current Assembly, for example, 29 federal ministers were supposed to answer members’ questions but a majority (19) of them did not show up on the day allocated for answering questions relating to their ministries. In most cases, the absence of the minister concerned deprives members of the opportunity to ask supplementary questions. Simi­larly, adjournment motions, privilege moti­ons and call-attention notices also require the presence of the minister concerned. The Speaker has repeatedly expressed displeasure at the frequent absence of ministers. Sometimes, ministers of state and parliamentary secretaries do not show up either to fill in for the minister concerned. Pakistan’s parliament is not the only one which faces issues of low attendance. Ministers generally take their cue from the prime minister and they are more likely to show up in the House if the PM is particular about his presence. During the life of the 15th Assembly, the attendance of the PM was a mere 13pc (11pc for Imran Khan and 17pc for Shehbaz Sharif). The attendance becomes more known through the media in the case of plenary sittings but the status of attendance is no different in the case of parliamentary committees. Many meetings are adjourned by the chair because the minister concerned and senior officials of the ministry do not show up at the meeting, leading to a wastage of financial resources spent on convening the meetings. However, one may add that Pakistan’s parliament is not the only one which faces issues of low attendance. Many parliaments face a similar situation and a number of parliaments have waived the condition of the presence of a minimum percentage of members for the validity of the proceedings. For example, the UK parliament and US Congress do not have a quorum requirement. The proceedings of the legislatures continue in these countries even if a single member is present in the House. In the case of the UK parliament, many parliamentary committees hold their meetings concurrently with the plenary. The proceedings of the plenary are watched by the members on CCTV while sitting in their offices or in meeting rooms. Members’ presence is required when a motion or a bill has to be voted on. Bells are rung at that time and members available within parliamentary precincts rush to the chamber to vote. The absence of a member from the precincts during the time of the plenary is, however, rare and frowned upon. A major reason for our legislators to be casual about their presence during the Assembly sittings has a lot to do with the preferences of a majority of their voters. Most voters are not so keen about their legislators’ performance in the Assembly. A member who works very hard on his parliamentary speeches and, for example, scrutiny of the annual budget, is seldom appreciated by the constituents. People want their elected representatives to attend to their personal issues, which need an influential legislator’s support for resolution due to poor governance. Finding jobs for constituents and their family members is one of the top expectations from legislators. Interceding with the local administration and police on behalf of the constituents to sort out their day-to-day problems is also among the informal responsibilities of legislators. Attending the weddings and funerals of voters’ extended families, too, is a strong preference of constituents. These informal chores are likely to be of greater help to a legislator in his re-election than making a speech in the House. The weak attendance of legislators is, therefore, not because of their lethargy. Instead, it is a reflection of the ground realities of our own governance and culture. The writer is president of the Pakistan-based think tank Pildat. X: @ABMPildat Published in Dawn, February 20th, 2026

A 3% Rule for Budget Deficits Would Be a Good Start
Financeadvisor-perspectives6mo ago

A 3% Rule for Budget Deficits Would Be a Good Start

All but unnoticed last month, a bipartisan group of legislators introduced a resolution calling for Congress to keep budget deficits at no more than 3% of gross domestic product. Though not enough by itself to solve America’s fiscal problems, the proposal is a rare step in the right direction. It deserves strong support.

Philippine Lawmakers Demand Transparency in Vice President Duterte’s Impeachment Trial
PoliticsRapplerinquirer2d ago2 sources

Philippine Lawmakers Demand Transparency in Vice President Duterte’s Impeachment Trial

Filipino legislators are pressing for greater disclosure regarding financial trails linked to the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte, while legal scholars debate whether sub judice rules should limit her public comments. The proceedings highlight growing political friction and scrutiny over executive accountability in the Philippines.

Ogun State Approves Major Infrastructure and Housing Projects
PoliticsPremium Timespunch-ng27d ago2 sources

Ogun State Approves Major Infrastructure and Housing Projects

The Ogun State Government has approved several significant infrastructure projects, including the construction of 450 housing units and new legislators' quarters. Additionally, the government sanctioned the upgrade of traditional rulers within the state.

Nigerian State Legislators Back State Police Bill Amidst Concerns
WorldPremium Timespunch-ngvanguard-ng2mo ago3 sources

Nigerian State Legislators Back State Police Bill Amidst Concerns

Nigerian state legislators, including Speakers from various assemblies, have expressed support for the state police bill, promising safeguards against abuse. However, some political parties and stakeholders continue to voice concerns regarding the potential dangers and motives behind its introduction.

Rebel TMC Faction Claims Opposition Leader Status in West Bengal Assembly
PoliticsTimes of Indiahindustan-timesndtv2mo ago3 sources

Rebel TMC Faction Claims Opposition Leader Status in West Bengal Assembly

Expelled Trinamool Congress leader Ritabrata Banerjee has been chosen as the Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, with a rebel faction of 59 TMC legislators claiming the status of the main opposition party. This move represents a significant blow to Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress.

Trump Administration Halts $1.8 Billion Fund, Proposes Brazil Tariffs
PoliticsAPReutersBBC+43bloombergNYTFTThe GuardianNPRAl JazeeraFox Newscbc+35 more2mo ago46 sources

Trump Administration Halts $1.8 Billion Fund, Proposes Brazil Tariffs

The Trump administration has put a controversial $1.8 billion 'weaponization' fund on hold following congressional opposition. Concurrently, the administration proposed a 25% tariff on Brazilian imports, citing unfair trade practices.

Politicshindustan-times3mo ago

AIADMK Faces Potential Split Amid Breakaway Talks

The AIADMK party is facing a potential split as reports suggest 36 legislators might back the Vijay-led TVK, which could risk the party's majority, while party chief Palaniswami remains cryptic about the situation.

El-Rufai's Son, Lawmakers Defect to ADC and NDC
PoliticsPremium Timespunch-ng3mo ago2 sources

El-Rufai's Son, Lawmakers Defect to ADC and NDC

El-Rufai's son and several lawmakers have announced their defection from the APC and PDP to join the ADC and NDC parties in the House of Representatives. This move signifies a shift in political affiliations among the legislators.

Tagbilaran City execs ask Marcos, Congress to ditch oil excise taxes
Politicsinquirer5mo ago

Tagbilaran City execs ask Marcos, Congress to ditch oil excise taxes

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol— Local legislators in this city have called on the national government to suspend excise taxes on petroleum products to ease the burden of rising fuel prices on consumers. In a set of resolutions authored by Councilor Fausto Budlong, the city council urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Congress to take immediate action,

EU Parliament greenlights new package travel rules to protect holidaymakers
Businessin-cyprus5mo ago

EU Parliament greenlights new package travel rules to protect holidaymakers

The European Parliament has greenlighted updated rules on package travel, strengthening consumer protections on refunds, vouchers and cancellations, with legislators drawing on lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic and high-profile tour operator bankruptcies. The directive, already provisionally agreed with EU member states, was adopted on Thursday by 537 votes in favour and two against, with 24 […]

Gains of state police in Nigeria, by Tonnie Iredia
Politicsvanguard-ng5mo ago

Gains of state police in Nigeria, by Tonnie Iredia

The clamour for the introduction of state police in Nigeria took a brighter turn last week when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu called on the national assembly to give the clamour a legal backing. In a chat with federal legislators last Wednesday, Tinubu said, “what I am asking for tonight is for you to start thinking […] The post Gains of state police in Nigeria, by Tonnie Iredia appeared first on Vanguard News.

Sri Lanka ends parliamentary pensions to prune perks for politicians
PoliticsSCMP6mo ago

Sri Lanka ends parliamentary pensions to prune perks for politicians

Sri Lanka’s parliament abolished pensions for all legislators and their widows on Tuesday, in line with a government pledge to prune the perks of politicians. “When people see the quality of debate and what members say in this House, they don’t think MPs deserve a pension,” Justice Minister Harsana Nanayakkara told parliament as it voted to stop pensions with immediate effect. The leftist government of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake repealed the 49-year-old Parliamentary Pensions Act just...

Philippine Legislators Debate Anti-Dynasty Bill and Social Media Curbs
Politicsinquirer2mo ago

Philippine Legislators Debate Anti-Dynasty Bill and Social Media Curbs

Philippine legislators are anticipating a contentious bicameral conference over an anti-dynasty bill, while Senator Sherwin Gatchalian plans to push for social media restrictions for minors. These legislative efforts address concerns about political power concentration and youth online safety.

BJP Engages in 'Resort Politics' in Jharkhand, India
Politicsindian-express2mo ago

BJP Engages in 'Resort Politics' in Jharkhand, India

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has reportedly begun 'resort politics' in Jharkhand, India, by moving its legislators away. This tactic is often used to prevent poaching or ensure loyalty during political crises.

CM Shivakumar's New Cabinet Sworn In
Politicshindustan-times2mo ago

CM Shivakumar's New Cabinet Sworn In

Thirteen legislators were sworn in as ministers in Chief Minister DK Shivakumar's new cabinet, featuring a blend of experienced and new political figures.

AIADMK Faces Setback as Multiple MLAs Resign to Join Rival Party
PoliticsTimes of Indiahindustan-times3mo ago2 sources

AIADMK Faces Setback as Multiple MLAs Resign to Join Rival Party

The AIADMK party experienced a significant political setback as four of its legislators resigned within 24 hours, with three immediately joining Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay's outfit, the TVK. The party has accused its rivals of 'horse-trading' following these defections.

Congress Warns Vijay Against Inducting Rebel AIADMK MLAs
PoliticsTimes of Indiaindian-express3mo ago2 sources

Congress Warns Vijay Against Inducting Rebel AIADMK MLAs

The Congress party has cautioned actor Vijay against inducting rebel AIADMK MLAs into the Tamil Nadu government. Congress MP Karti Chidambaram stated that such a move would significantly erode public goodwill.

Southern States Redraw Maps After Supreme Court Voting Rights Ruling
PoliticsAPNYTwapo+10NPRCNNFox NewsYahoohindustan-timesindian-expressPremium Timespunch-ng+2 more4mo ago13 sources

Southern States Redraw Maps After Supreme Court Voting Rights Ruling

Following a US Supreme Court ruling on the Voting Rights Act, Alabama, Tennessee, and other Southern states are moving to redraw their congressional maps, potentially impacting Republican House seats. Democrats have commented on the court's reasoning regarding a 'colorblind society'.

2027: Three ex-govs unveil committee for APC’s victory in Abia
Politicspunch-ng5mo ago

2027: Three ex-govs unveil committee for APC’s victory in Abia

The three former governors of Abia State, on Saturday, inaugurated a technical committee charged with securing a comprehensive win for the All Progressives Congress in the 2027 general elections. The committee, comprising former legislators and appointees from the administrations of Orji Uzor Kalu, Theodore Orji, and Okezie Ikpeazu, was inaugurated in Umuahia on Saturday. Inaugurating Read More: https://punchng.com/2027-three-ex-govs-unveil-committee-for-apcs-victory-in-abia/

Siddaramaiah camp to take 27 MLAs abroad 'to counter DKS push for CLP meeting'
PoliticsTimes of India6mo ago

Siddaramaiah camp to take 27 MLAs abroad 'to counter DKS push for CLP meeting'

A foreign tour by Congress legislators aligned with CM Siddaramaiah has intensified a power struggle with Deputy CM DK Shivakumar over a rumored leadership transition. While legislators claim the trip is routine, insiders view it as a tactic to counter Shivakumar's push for a CLP meeting to discuss a change in leadership.