KARACHI: Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has reiterated his call to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to conduct general elections within the constitutional limit of 90 days. Bilawal emphasized that his party has always been prepared for elections and expressed its commitment to constitutional procedures.
Addressing the media in Karachi, Bilawal responded to Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the chief of JUI-F, who claimed that the PPP had deviated from its earlier demand for early elections in February.
Bilawal explained the differing interpretations of the Constitution held by the PPP, the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), and the ECP. He asserted that the PPP believes elections should occur within 90 days, while others believe they should take place after the delimitation exercise concludes.
The ECP has ruled out elections for this year. However, the constitutional deadline for holding polls following the dissolution of the National Assembly is November 9, as mandated under Article 224 of the Constitution.
Bilawal Bhutto Highlights Pakistan’s Major Challenges
Bilawal underscored that the people of the country are grappling with three major issues: inflation, unemployment, and poverty. He emphasized that the PPP’s focus is on addressing these challenges rather than viewing any political entity as an enemy.
Bilawal stated that the PPP has consistently practiced people-friendly politics and governance, aiding the impoverished. He stressed the importance of holding elections within the Constitution’s timeframe of 90 days. This, he believes, would allow the PPP to serve the people and navigate the country through challenging economic times.
Regarding Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s recent statement that elections would have occurred by now if the PPP had not changed its stance, Bilawal refrained from providing extensive details.
When asked about his father, former President Asif Ali Zardari, Bilawal noted his more than 30-year-long political career and the substantial time he spent behind bars.
