Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has sparked laughter in the National Assembly after proposing a ban on Vigo vehicles (known as “Vigo Dala” in local slang) in Parliament Lodges and on public roads, arguing that lawmakers and ministers should avoid unnecessary security protocols and displays of privilege.
During a session of the National Assembly, Defence Minister stressed the need to ensure discipline and uphold parliamentary traditions within the House, saying that violations of rules in galleries and lobbies are unacceptable.
“Save Parliament from Vigo vehicles. The Vigo has become a symbol of excess,” he remarked. He added that ministers should be reminded that national flags should not remain on official vehicles after office hours and are unnecessary when the minister is personally inside the vehicle.
He further suggested that a mechanism be introduced to prevent Vigo vehicles from entering Parliament Lodges. “When we are in power, police escort us from the front; when we lose power, police follow us from behind,” he joked, reiterating his call for restrictions on Vigo vehicles both inside Parliament Lodges and on roads.
He said that members should be made fully aware of parliamentary etiquette and rules and regulations, and that the dignity and sanctity of Parliament House must be preserved at all costs. Given the security situation, he added, the movement of visitors should be closely monitored.
Khawaja Asif called for discouraging unnecessary conversations and gestures in the galleries, saying that behavior disrupting the atmosphere of the House should not be tolerated.
He stressed that the Speaker’s authority and decisions must be respected and suggested that clear instructions regarding parliamentary discipline be prominently displayed.
He urged all lawmakers to adhere to parliamentary traditions and the code of conduct.
