During an interview on Geo TV’s program “Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Ke Saath,” former Federal Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah expressed his views on the misuse of presidential authority in Pakistan. He stated that the President of the country has repeatedly misused their constitutional role in the past. He also predicted that in the upcoming elections, Bilawal Bhutto would be their opponent, and they would compete in an environment of democracy and respect.
Faisal Karim Kundi, the Information Secretary of the Pakistan People’s Party, called upon the Election Commission to hold elections within 90 days as per the constitution. He emphasized that neither the President of the country nor the Supreme Court has any role in organizing elections. Kundi further commented that the President’s letter appeared to be written in a hesitant and apprehensive tone, suggesting that President Arif Alvi might be feeling uncertain about the situation. He questioned the state of mind of Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, considering the tone of the letter.
Rana Sanaullah clarified that the President’s letter to the Election Commission holds no legal significance, as the President does not have the authority to set the election date. He mentioned that the President has not considered the requirements of his office carefully and has repeatedly misused his constitutional role.
The matter of determining the election date falls under the jurisdiction of the Election Commission, and the Supreme Court is responsible for interpreting the constitution and laws. Until the Supreme Court makes a decision on this matter, both opinions should be respected.
Rana Sanaullah also pointed out that the Election Commission has already initiated the process of delimitation of constituencies, and stopping it midway would be challenging due to legal requirements. He stressed that Bilawal Bhutto had been their ally until August and speculated that he would now become their opponent in the upcoming elections. Sanaullah acknowledged that Bilawal Bhutto has the right to express his views on election matters in accordance with electoral wisdom and practicality.
