Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar has reassured the public that the security situation at Pakistan’s borders will not cause a delay in the upcoming general elections. In an interview with Voice of America (VOA) Urdu, PM Kakar stated that although there is an alarming situation on both the western and eastern frontiers, the government is confident in its ability to control the situation and complete the electoral process as planned.
The PM’s statement comes in response to growing demands for an immediate announcement of the election date by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). The ECP has already indicated that the elections will be pushed beyond the constitutionally mandated period of 90 days following the dissolution of the National Assembly on May 9. This decision is based on the need to incorporate the results of the new digital 2023 census and fulfill the requirements of the Elections Act.
President Dr. Arif Alvi recently proposed holding the general elections by November 6, citing a constitutionally mandated time frame. However, the CEC declined the invitation to discuss the date, citing the amendment to the Elections Act 2017, which grants the commission the authority to unilaterally announce election dates without consulting the president.
PM Kakar has consistently emphasized that the responsibility of setting the election date lies with the Election Commission of Pakistan, and the caretaker government’s role is to assist the commission. He reiterated this stance during the VOA interview, stating that it is not the caretaker government’s job to address speculation surrounding the elections.
Regarding the security threats posed by the banned militant outfit Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), PM Kakar emphasized Pakistan’s right to defense and stated that they would take action to protect their land and people when necessary. He also expressed Pakistan’s commitment to prioritizing its interests in talks with the Afghan Taliban, citing the importance of abiding by the agreements made, such as the Doha deal.
Despite concerns about Pakistan’s global standing due to growing ties between Gulf countries and India, PM Kakar dismissed the notion that Pakistan was becoming isolated. He highlighted the dynamic nature of global alliances based on converging interests and conflicts of interests.
Refuting claims of restricted media freedom and alleged restrictions on mentioning PTI Chairman Imran Khan’s name in the media, the PM stated that Pakistan’s indicators of journalistic freedom and expression are relatively better in the region. He further noted that journalists have the permission and opportunity to raise their voices on various issues.
Regarding cases against Imran Khan, the PM highlighted that it is a sub-judice matter and that the conclusion of judicial proceedings is awaited. He clarified that the judicial process is not an attempt to remove anyone from politics but rather the law of the land taking its course.
In conclusion, PM Kakar assured the public that the government is committed to conducting the elections as planned, despite the challenging security situation at the borders. He emphasized that the caretaker government’s role is to assist the Election Commission of Pakistan and expressed confidence in their ability to fulfill their constitutional obligations.