In a recent development, Pakistan is preparing for its forthcoming general elections, tentatively slated for January 28, 2023. Sources within the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) have divulged that ECP officials have drafted a preliminary timeline for the impending polls. Although the precise date remains unconfirmed, it is anticipated to fall within the January 27 to January 30, 2023 timeframe.
The ultimate election schedule will be officially unveiled upon securing the requisite approvals from the Election Commission. The ECP has taken significant strides in engaging with relevant authorities and stakeholders to ascertain the most suitable election date.
Proposal from Provincial Governments
Earlier this week, the Election Commission reached out to the caretaker governments of all provinces to seek their input on the election date. In response, provincial governments recommended conducting the general elections between February 11 and February 25, 2023. Until this point, it seemed likely that the elections would occur in the final week of February.
PPP’s Call for Timely Elections
The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has been fervently advocating for the expeditious announcement of the election schedule. Citing Article 224 of the Constitution, the PPP urged that the next general elections be held within 90 days. Prominent PPP leader Nayyar Bukhari underscored the significance of adhering to the constitutional timeline and implored the Election Commission to promptly disclose the election date.
Sherry Rehman, a former minister and PPP member, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the prevailing anxiety among the populace and calling for immediate clarity regarding the election schedule. Following a meeting with the Election Commission, PPP leaders conveyed their concerns to the Chief Election Commissioner, Sikandar Sultan Raja.
ECP’s Pledge to Accelerate the Process
Subsequent to their discussions with the PPP, the Election Commission issued a statement in which they reassured the party of their commitment to promptly announce the election schedule. They also expressed their intention to expedite the process of new delimitations to ensure a punctual election.
Nayyar Bukhari reiterated the PPP’s stance that the elections must be conducted within the constitutionally mandated timeframe, and the party urged the Election Commission to swiftly disclose both the election date and the associated schedule.
As anticipation mounts for Pakistan’s upcoming general elections, citizens and political parties alike eagerly await the final confirmation of the election date, which is expected to be a pivotal event in the nation’s democratic process.
