ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi urged Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to announce dates for elections in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Punjab, stating that Constitution did not allow for any delays. In letter to Chief Election Commissioner Sikander Sultan Raja, President highlighted “Relevant provisions of Constitution” after “Dissolution of two Provincial Assemblies, Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and consequential elections to be held there”.

It maintained that Article 2A of Constitution said, “State shall exercise its power and authority through chosen representatives of people”. Alvi furthered “Such is unflinching resolve and commitment by forefathers of Nation who drafted Objectives Resolution duly made part of Constitution (Article 2A). Thus, there remains no obscurity about democratic principles and values that are to be adhered to, observed and followed”. It emphasised that dissolution of provincial assembly can happen either under Article 105 or Article 112.

“In either situation, election of Assembly is to be held within 90 days of dissolution. Such mandate stands further fortified by Article 224(2) emphasising holding of an election in 90 days. He concluded that electoral watchdog, in accordance with Constitution and law, should immediately announce date of polls by issuing an election schedule and “Put an end to such dangerous speculative propaganda for these and future general elections”. Copies of letter were also sent to National Assembly Speaker Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, governors of Punjab and KP and Speakers of respective provincial assemblies.

Published in The Daily National Courier, February, 09 2023

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