Former President and Co-chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), Asif Ali Zardari, highlighted on Saturday the constitutional responsibility of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in the aftermath of the recent census results.
Zardari emphasized that it is imperative for the ECP to conduct the delimitation of constituencies in accordance with the Constitution. He insisted that for the forthcoming polls to truly reflect the democratic aspirations of the Pakistani population, the electoral watchdog must adhere strictly to the nation’s fundamental law.
The clarion call from Asif Ali Zardari comes on the heels of a significant comment made by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari just a day earlier.
During a media interaction in Karachi on Friday, the young chairman emphasized the importance of timely elections and stated that they must be held within the constitutional timeframe of 90 days, echoing the sentiments of many who have been anxiously watching the political scenario unfold.
The ECP, however, has already announced that elections will not be conducted this year. This decision raises eyebrows as the 90-day period for conducting polls post the dissolution of the National Assembly (NA) – a mandate clearly outlined in Article 224 of the Constitution – draws to a close on November 9.
The delay has spurred debates about the commission’s adherence to constitutional norms and the democratic future of the nation.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has provided the rationale behind its decision to delay the elections past the November 9 deadline. The ECP cites the notification of results from the newly conducted digital 2023 census and refers to Section 17(2) of the Elections Act.
The specific section states, “The commission shall delimit constituencies after every census is officially published.” This implies that the process of delimitation is paramount, and the recent census data must be factored in before elections are held, potentially extending the timeline.
Focusing the constitutional imperative, former President Asif Ali Zardari issued a statement today. He reiterated, “The election commission will conduct elections according to the Constitution.” The assertion underscores the PPP leadership’s firm stance on the adherence to constitutional norms during this politically charged period.
Continuing his statement, Zardari clarified the party’s stance, emphasizing that it is a constitutional mandate for the ECP to conduct fresh delimitations after the census.
“This isn’t just a procedural task; it’s an obligation that ensures the accurate representation of our citizens,” he remarked.
Demonstrating faith in the electoral institution, he stated, “We have complete confidence in the chief election commissioner and the [ECP’s] members.”
Switching gears to address the nation’s developmental needs, the former president underscored the pivotal role of the caretaker government. He pressed on the immediacy required to roll out and execute projects under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
Zardari believes that such proactive steps would pave the path for national progress. Commenting on the ongoing economic turbulence, Zardari made a heartfelt plea to political parties, saying, “Prioritise the economy over politics.
We all exist as long as the country exists.” This profound remark signals a call for unity amidst political differences for the larger benefit of the nation.
Earlier in the week, the legal fraternity voiced its concerns over the delayed election schedule at the All Pakistan Lawyers Convention. Organised by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) in Islamabad, the convention saw the unanimous adoption of several resolutions.
A significant point of emphasis was the demand for the timely conduct of general elections “within the constitutionally mandated period of 90 days following the dissolution of the assemblies.”
The legal community, recognizing its duty towards the nation’s democratic processes, has also announced a nationwide strike on September 14. This strike aims to highlight the importance of upholding the Constitution, rule of law, and ensuring the protection of human rights.
Simultaneously, in another significant move reflective of the mounting concerns within the legal sector, the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) said in the sentiment. Passing a separate resolution, the PBC appealed to President Arif Alvi, urging him to exercise his constitutional duty.
They called on the president to set a clear date for the upcoming general elections, reiterating the gravity of the situation and the need for adherence to constitutional timelines. The collective push by the legal community showcases its commitment to the democratic ethos of Pakistan.