The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has extended invitations to the Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) for separate meetings on Monday to discuss the electoral roadmap for the upcoming general elections. The ECP issued notices to MQM-P convener Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui and JI emir Sirajul Haq, requesting their feedback on various aspects related to the elections.
The key areas of discussion include:
- Delimitation of constituencies
- Upgradation of electoral rolls
- Conduct of general elections
- Schedule of election
- Other related matters
The ECP reiterated that its constitutional duty is to organize and conduct elections in an honest, just, fair, and lawful manner, while ensuring the prevention of corrupt practices. The consultations with political parties aim to create a transparent and efficient electoral process.
MQM-P Highlights the Importance of New Delimitation for Transparent Elections
The MQM-P, in a statement released after a coordination committee meeting, emphasized the significance of new delimitation for transparent elections. The party stated that transparent elections cannot be held without a new delimitation and expressed its commitment to using all constitutional and legal measures to ensure a fair and unbiased delimitation process.
ECP to Hold High-Level Meeting with Police Chiefs and Chief Secretaries
The Election Commission of Pakistan has also scheduled a high-level meeting on Tuesday with the police chiefs, chief secretaries, and election commissioners of the four provinces to discuss the preparations for the elections. The meeting aims to address security concerns and plans in the provinces, as well as the administrative preparations for the polls.
Consultations with Mainstream Political Parties
The ECP’s consultations with mainstream political parties on formulating a roadmap for the general elections began last week. Meetings were held with the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl and PTI on Thursday, followed by a session with the PML-N on Friday. A meeting with the PPP is scheduled for Tuesday. These consultations are crucial in ensuring a smooth and efficient electoral process.
Rekindling Hope for February Elections
During the meeting with the PML-N, the ECP announced its intention to simultaneously work on delimiting constituencies and updating the electoral rolls, indicating the possibility of holding elections in February next year. This decision, if implemented, would align with the Constitution, which requires elections to be held within 90 days after the dissolution of assemblies.
ECP’s Commitment to Simultaneously Conduct Delimitation and Updating Electoral Rolls
The ECP spokesman clarified that the commission has already started the process of simultaneously conducting delimitation and updating electoral rolls. The objective is to complete both processes simultaneously and ensure the availability of the electoral college for the Senate before half of its members’ terms expire in March.
PPP’s Demand for Elections According to the Constitution
The PPP leader, Khursheed Shah, reiterated the party’s demand to hold elections within 90 days of the National Assembly’s dissolution in accordance with the Constitution. The party plans to present this demand to the Election Commission and seek its compliance.