ISLAMABAD: A proposal to restrict the use of Toyota Hilux “Vigo” vehicles triggered a heated exchange in National Assembly on Monday, as Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s remarks on the issue drew both support and warnings from the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) over possible political consequences.
Speaking on a point of order, PTI lawmaker Sardar Latif Khosa responded in a sarcastic tone to the minister’s earlier comments, cautioning against targeting Toyota Hilux “Vigo” vehicles, commonly known as “Vigo dala” convoys, which are widely associated with security escorts and official protocols used by influential segments of the state apparatus.
In a pointed address, he warned that such proposals could carry broader political implications, arguing that attempts to challenge entrenched practices often come with consequences.
Recalling his party’s earlier criticism of the Hilux “Vigo” culture and the backlash it had faced, Khosa said in a sarcastic tone that such measures might look bold on paper, but in reality could stir resistance from powerful quarters that are not easily challenged within the system.
He also referred to past political transitions in the country, suggesting that efforts to assert civilian authority over established administrative structures had, at times, resulted in political setbacks.
Citing former prime minister Muhammad Khan Junejo, he drew parallels with earlier reform attempts aimed at changing state practices.
In a tone laced with irony, the PTI leader added that phasing out such vehicles could, in principle, redirect resources towards public welfare, adding, “Wish if this could have been possible.”
Seemingly pleased with the minister’s outburst against powerful quarters, he nonetheless reiterated that historically, challenging entrenched norms in governance had often proven politically costly in the country.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, however, dismissed the warnings and instead escalated his remarks, calling for a comprehensive review of all bullet-proof vehicles in use across the country, building on his earlier demand to curb what he described as the “Vigo culture.”
He questioned how many such vehicles were currently in operation, who had authorised their use, and how their maintenance costs – including frequent tyre replacements, etc. – were being justified.
A day earlier, speaking in the House, Asif had criticised the routine presence of Toyota Hilux vehicles around Parliament Lodges and on public roads, questioning their continued use in official settings and describing “Vigo” convoys as a symbol of unchecked privilege.
He had proposed restricting their use and suggested that official vehicles should not display flags outside working hours, arguing that visible symbols of authority and privilege should be reduced.
The exchange unfolded during a broader discussion on Interior Ministry spending and cut motions, when Khosa raised the issue and appeared to mock the minister, warning him to tread carefully in his criticism of the practice, noting that the party had already faced backlash for speaking out on similar matters.
The debate extended at times beyond budgetary concerns and reflected growing political tensions between the government and the opposition inside the National Assembly.
Speaking on a point of order, acting PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan also used the occasion to reiterate his party’s demand for political dialogue, accusing the government of failing to engage meaningfully with the opposition and warning that continued confrontation was deepening polarisation.
Referring to ongoing legal proceedings against PTI leaders, including convictions in anti-terrorism cases, Gohar described the situation as political victimisation.
He also called for easing restrictions on meetings with incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi, arguing that continued isolation was further aggravating tensions.
Responding to the opposition’s concerns, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar said amendments to criminal laws were currently under review by parliamentary committees.
He maintained that the judiciary was independent of the executive and stressed that legal proceedings were proceeding strictly in accordance with due process.
Later, speaking to reporters outside Parliament House, Gohar said that while formal negotiations had not yet begun, both sides appeared to be “very close” to establishing a channel of dialogue.
He cautioned that continued political pressure and arrests of opposition figures could further inflame tensions and deepen polarisation in the country’s political environment.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026