ISLAMABAD: The Women Commission on the Status of Women, led by Chairperson Nilofar Bakhtiar, presented a comprehensive roadmap to improve the representation of women in politics and the electoral process. The Women Commission delegation, headed by Nilofar Bakhtiar, called on Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja at the Election Commission of Pakistan, and their proposals were warmly welcomed.
The meeting was attended by ECP Members Nisar Ahmed Durrani, Shah Mohammad Jatoi, Babar Hassan Bharwana, Ikramullah Khan, and senior officers. During the meeting, the Women’s Commission Chairperson presented several proposals to encourage women’s participation in the political process and enhance their representation in the assemblies.
Empowering Women in Politics
In response, the Chief Election Commissioner assured the delegation of the Election Commission’s commitment to bridge the gender gap between women and men voters. He also highlighted the ongoing efforts to register women’s identity cards and facilitate their voting across all four provinces in collaboration with NADRA and civil society. Additionally, the commission strongly opposes any violence against women during the electoral process.
Chief Election Commissioner Raja emphasized the commission’s success in thwarting efforts to commit violence against women candidates and voters in recent by-elections. He reiterated the Election Commission’s dedication to creating a safe environment for women’s active participation in the upcoming elections as both voters and candidates.
The Election Commission pledged full support for the Women Commission’s recommendations, including necessary legislation to promote women’s involvement in the electoral process. Sikandar Sultan Raja further assured provisions for women, persons with disabilities, and the transgender community in the upcoming general elections, with stringent legal actions against anyone hindering women’s right to vote.
