Women from the opposition PTI protested at the joint parliament on Tuesday after Defense Minister Khawaja Asif made sexist and derogatory remarks, another example of verbal abuse against female politicians.
He made the remarks in response to criticism from members of parliament, including PTI Senator Ali Zafar, over the way the bill was enacted in parliament and the “bulldozing” of the bill.
In his speech, Mr Asif referred to former Prime Minister Imran Khan and recalled breaking the law and dissolving the parliament during his tenure. Fallen women shouldn’t be preaching chastity,” he said, followed by the women’s reactions during the live session. In response, one of PTI women said something to which he replied” now she would use the “woman card” if he says anything. “They will say, ‘We are women and what is he talking about us?
“This is trash left by PTI bosses and needs to be cleaned up,” he added.
This provoked a violent reaction from PTI lawmakers, who rose from their seats and demanded that Asif should take his remarks back. Amid loud protests from her, the Defense Minister continued his speech, saying: “He (Mr Imran) does not dare to appear in court today and they are defending him. How brave a man is to be defended by a woman?”
After his speech,Senator Taimur said that “what distinguishes people is only their moral character and behavior.
I was concerned about the language used by such high-level politicians. I never heard such language in my home.”
“We don’t respect anyone unless we consider ourselves worthy of respect,” added Taimur.
No one actually condemned the remarks except PTI members during the session.
