Owais Qadir Shah as Speaker:Constitutional Role, Powers, Responsibilities and Parliamentary Traditions…

By:Rahmatullah Buriro

In the political landscape of Sindh, the position of Speaker is not merely a constitutional office but an institution of parliamentary balance, political wisdom, and dignified neutrality. The current Speaker, Syed Owais Qadir Shah, stands as a continuation of this long-standing parliamentary tradition. His emergence from the politically vibrant constituency of Kandhra Saleh Pat, securing victory for the third consecutive time, reflects his political maturity, public trust, and legislative competence.
Constitutional Role and the Sensitivity of the Office
Constitutionally, the Speaker is the custodian of the Assembly. Managing the legislative process, ensuring a balance in governmental proceedings, protecting the rights of the opposition, and conducting sessions with neutrality are the core responsibilities entrusted to this office. Owais Qadir Shah has not only fulfilled these duties with constitutional discipline but has infused modern administrative efficiency and a dignified environment into the Assembly proceedings.
This era is marked by intense political divisions, yet his calm tone, respectful attitude, and commitment to giving every member equal opportunity to speak reflect his refined parliamentary temperament. Even members of the opposition acknowledge moments where the Speaker acted impartially and upheld democratic values.
Powers Exercised with Balance and Composure
The Speaker’s authority includes issuing rulings, setting session agendas, guiding legislative procedures, and maintaining decorum. Owais Qadir Shah has exercised these powers with remarkable restraint, preventing parliamentary disagreements from escalating into chaos. Under his leadership, major legislative debates proceeded smoothly, and the Assembly agenda was completed with notable efficiency.
A clear example of his administrative skill is the transformation of the Assembly Secretariat into a more active, technology-friendly, and publicly accessible institution. Digitalization of records, updated member lists, and improved transparency in documentation highlight his efforts toward modernization.
Responsibilities and Political Foresight
The Speaker’s role extends far beyond presiding over sessions; it demands political insight and strategic leadership. The stature and credibility of Owais Qadir Shah have strengthened the Assembly’s moral standing both inside and outside the House. Historically, Speakers in Sindh have often been accused of partisanship, but during his tenure, this perception has significantly improved.
Despite holding a constitutional position, he has never distanced himself from his constituency. Whether engaged in Assembly proceedings or addressing public issues in his area, Owais Qadir Shah has maintained a well-balanced and responsive political presence.
Parliamentary Traditions – Strengthening a Proud Legacy
Sindh Assembly carries a rich parliamentary heritage, and its Speaker is considered the guardian of these traditions. Owais Qadir Shah has upheld this heritage with dignity—promoting respectful debate, avoiding unnecessary confrontation, and encouraging resolution through dialogue. His leadership style has enhanced the decorum of the House and strengthened democratic conduct.
Whenever tensions rose during heated discussions, his composed and balanced approach succeeded in de-escalating the situation—showing his maturity, patience, and political tolerance.
Conclusion. Renewal of Public Confidence
Syed Owais Qadir Shah is not only continuing the political legacy of his family but is also shaping a new parliamentary culture through his personal competence. His tenure as Speaker stands out as a stable and constructive chapter in Sindh’s legislative history—commendable from constitutional, political, and public-interest perspectives.
Just as he earned unwavering trust from the people of his constituency, he has also secured confidence and respect within the Sindh Assembly as a balanced, dignified, and transparent Speaker. And that, indeed, is his true political success.
As Speaker of the Sindh Assembly, Owais Qadir Shah has attended the World Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentarians Association in Barbados. A big thing and another opportunity is that the young parliamentarian Owais Qadir Shah is getting the role of host speaker regarding the Speakership of the Sindh Assembly, which is a conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentarians Association to be held in the last week of February 2026. This event will be of great importance. It is likely that important leaders of the country will attend it. As the host, the Sindh Assembly will have a historic occasion and event. When I spoke to the Secretary of the Assembly, Ghulam Umar Farooq Buriro, in this regard, he said that we are happy that the Sindh Assembly is getting the honor of hosting the CPA. He further said that the program is being organized under the guidance of the Speaker. The finalization of more programs will accelerate in January.