Category: Politics

Furthermore, the Tribunal has issued notices regarding appeals against the decisions of Returning Officers in response to nominations being rejected for PTI candidate Arsalan Khalid from NA-241. The Election Tribunals have given until January 5th for responses from the Election Commission and other concerned authorities.

It is noteworthy that the Election Commission had declared the intra-party elections of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf against the constitution, subsequently nullifying PTI’s electoral symbol. However, PTI challenged the Commission’s decision in the Peshawar High Court.

The call for transparency gains significance as the rejection rate for nomination papers for the upcoming 2024 elections stands at 12.4%, compared to 10.4% in the 2018 elections and 14.6% in the 2013 elections, according to FAFEN. The organization urges that understanding the rationale behind rejections is pivotal for upholding the integrity of the electoral process.

The move by the Election Commission underscores its commitment to maintaining the integrity and fairness of the electoral process by preventing undue influence and ensuring adherence to established ethical standards. The concern over the potential impact of media activities on voters emphasizes the importance of a transparent and unbiased electoral environment.

The crux of the matter lies in the conflicting decisions by the Supreme Court, which declared Nawaz Sharif ineligible, and the Returning Officer, who accepted his nomination papers. This dissonance raises questions about the legal standing and eligibility criteria for electoral candidates.

To address this gap, it is essential for electoral authorities to implement measures that facilitate the inclusion of transgender and Khawaja Sira individuals in the political landscape. This could involve awareness campaigns, sensitivity training for election officials, and adjustments in the electoral documentation to recognize diverse gender identities.

The decision by the Election Tribunal adds a new layer of complexity to the electoral landscape in Karachi, as Firdous Shamim Naqvi holds a prominent position within the PTI ranks. This development could potentially impact the political dynamics in the city, raising questions about the party’s strategy and potential alternative candidates.

Addressing the current political scenario, Dr. Sveera highlighted the crucial role of both experienced seniors and energetic youth in the electoral process. She acknowledged the support of PPP’s regional leadership, specifically Saifullah Khan, who initially granted her permission to contest the general seat.

Addressing the Supreme Court’s recent intervention, Barrister Gohar highlighted that the apex court has restrained the holding of the Non-Party Based Elections. He expressed hope that the Supreme Court, known for upholding justice and democratic values, will facilitate transparent and fair elections.