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The Standing Committee of the National Assembly on Housing and Works has deferred consideration of the Islamabad Capital Territory Condominium (Ownership and Management) Bill, 2026, after senior officials from the Ministry of Housing and Works failed to attend a scheduled meeting at Parliament House.
The meeting, chaired by Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haideri, MNA, reviewed legislative and administrative matters related to federal housing and development projects and formally confirmed the minutes of its previous session held on December 29, 2025.
During proceedings, committee members expressed strong concern over the repeated absence of the Federal Secretary for Housing and Works, noting that the lack of senior representation had become a persistent issue. In response, the committee recommended that the matter be raised on the floor of the National Assembly and issued a formal letter of displeasure, stressing the importance of consistent and timely attendance by top ministry officials.
Members clarified that they were not opposed to the proposed Condominium Bill and broadly supported its objectives. However, they emphasized that meaningful scrutiny was not possible without the presence of both the Federal Minister and the Federal Secretary. As a result, detailed deliberations on the legislation were postponed, with the committee scheduling the next discussion for February 9, 2026, when the officials are expected to attend.
The committee also raised concerns about the quality of information submitted by the Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA). Members observed that the data provided was outdated and insufficient for an informed assessment of ongoing housing projects. FGEHA was directed to submit revised and up-to-date information at the next meeting.
In addition, the Ministry of Housing and Works was instructed to present a comprehensive list of its properties in Karachi, reflecting the committee’s intent to enhance transparency and oversight of federal real estate assets.
The session was attended by committee members Anjum Aqeel Khan, Ibrar Ahmad, Haji Rasool Bux Chandio, Dr. Darshan, and Syed Sami Ul Hasan Gilani, while Ms. Samina Khalid Ghurki participated via video link. Senior officials, including the Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Works and representatives from attached departments, were also present.
The deferred bill is expected to return to the agenda in February, with lawmakers signaling that full consideration will depend on the availability of senior ministry leadership and updated supporting documentation.
