ISLAMABAD: Leaders of the parliamentary parties of the federal government’s coalition partners in Pakistan, including Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif, have pledged to stand for the restoration of the parliament’s dignity.
This comes after a three-member bench of the Supreme Court ordered the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to hold elections in Punjab on May 14, 2023.
During a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the government had tabled a resolution in parliament against the decision, which they plan to move on Thursday.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also stated that the government would release funds for the elections on Thursday as per the court’s orders.
The ECP has until April 11 to present a report to the Supreme Court, and the Punjab caretaker government has until April 17 to make security arrangements.
Meanwhile, PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif criticized the Supreme Court’s decision, stating that the fate of the people was about to be written. He added that the federal government would make a decision after a thorough consultation.
ECP revises elections schedule as per Supreme Court’s directives
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has issued an updated schedule for elections in Punjab, stating that nomination papers for the elections will not be accepted anew, and objections filed on only old nomination papers will be addressed.
The date for appealing against the decision of returning officers has been fixed for April 10, and the Election Tribunal will decide on the appeals until April 17.
Following this, a new candidate list will be issued, and candidates have until April 19 to withdraw their nomination papers. Finally, the ECP will issue election symbols on April 20.
A consultative meeting held under the chair of Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja decided to hold polls as per the direction of the top court.
The decision of the Supreme Court has sparked controversy and concern among opposition parties, who accuse the court of ignoring the verdict of the majority and disregarding the Constitution.
The PDM vows to continue its efforts to restore the parliament’s dignity and uphold democratic principles.
