Islamabad: To postpone the general elections for three months due to security challenges, a resolution has been passed in the Senate.
According to Express News, this resolution regarding the postponement of the 2024 elections has been submitted by Senator Hidayatullah of the Free Parliament Group at the Senate Secretariat.
The resolution states that the increasing incidents of targeted attacks on election candidates across the country have raised deep concerns in the parliament regarding the implementation of the formal responsibility of holding general elections.
It is stated in the resolution that the increasing incidents of terrorism and violence throughout the country, including armed attacks in North Waziristan, Bajaur, Swabi, and Turbat, have led to severe injuries to a prominent nationalist politician contesting elections from national and provincial constituencies, and the death of a candidate.
The resolution also highlights the growing environment of fear and insecurity across the country due to these incidents, making the distribution of threatening pamphlets in candidates’ residences and election campaign offices another worrisome challenge in the current security challenges.
According to the text, the Senate acknowledges that the conduct of general elections is a constitutional responsibility, and emphasizes on ensuring the uniform conduct of free and fair elections and the protection of all stakeholders.
Senator Hidayatullah stated that Article 9 of the Constitution emphasizes the importance of this fundamental right which the state must provide in all circumstances, and that the protection of life and property of the public is a fundamental responsibility of the state. He also called on the Election Commission of Pakistan and the Supreme Court of Pakistan to postpone the elections.
The resolution also demands that during the postponement period, the government must actively create an equal playing field for all political parties and candidates, including eliminating safety concerns and promoting a conducive environment for participation, as well as guaranteeing freedom from threats.