KABUL - The Wolesi Jirga (WJ) member Sakhi Mushwani on Tuesday slapped Minister of Rural Development and Rehabilitation Naseer Ahmad Durrani before walking out the lower house, an act that drew sharp criticism from his colleagues.
The Wolesi Jirga had summoned Durrani, Finance Minister Eklil Hakimi and Public Works Minister Mahmood Baligh to brief the legislators on issues related to their portfolios.
Each MP was given three minutes to question the ministers. Mushwani spoke for three minutes before microphone was switched off. In a fit of rage, he first tried to pounce at 2nd Deputy Speaker Erfanullah Erfan and then went on to slap the minister.
After Durrani was whacked, 1st Deputy Speaker Haji Zahir Qadir ordered security officials to take Mushwani out of the Wolesi Jirga hall.
A lawmaker, who disrupts house proceedings, including a physical clash with or insulting government officials, can be punished under the internal rules of business of the Wolesi Jirga. He/she can be advised, warned or sent out of the session for a day. (Pajhwok)