On Thursday, the National Assembly experienced a rare moment of levity amidst its usual tensions.
Despite the strain between the government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) due to recent arrests following KP CM Ali Amin Gandapur’s controversial speech, the mood turned unexpectedly jovial.
The lightheartedness began with Federal Minister Awais Laghari’s remark:
“I think I have serious COVID symptoms,” which he made while wearing a mask.
This prompted the deputy custodian of the house to ask,
“Are you scaring us with the idea of COVID?”
Laghari clarified that he had not been diagnosed or tested yet but was expressing concerns based on his symptoms. Shah advised him to get tested.
Amidst this exchange, assembly members humorously suggested that Laghari should hug opposition leader Omar Ayub as he left.
As Laghari departed, he playfully extended his hand towards Ayub but withdrew before contact.
Ayub, smiling broadly, opened his arms in a friendly gesture, willing to embrace the minister despite the earlier comments.
The House erupted in laughter at the playful interaction between Ayub and Laghari.