ISLAMABAD: Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) strongly condemned Election Commission of Pakistan’s decision to postpone April 30 elections in Punjab, terming it an ‘absolute abrogation of Constitution’.

In statement, SCBA President Abid Zuberi condemning ECP’s move said that Election Commission cannot change date for elections under any circumstances whatsoever.

“Supreme Court had made it inexplicably clear that elections had to be held within 90-day time period stipulated under Article 224 (2) of Constitution. However, it is unfortunate that Election Commission has acted in such blatant disregard of its Constitutional mandate and order of apex court,” Zuberi said.

He noted that there was no such provision in Election Act or Constitution that allows Election Commission to conduct elections beyond 90-day time period stipulated Article 224 (2) of Constitution.

“It is truly unfortunate to see that Election Commission has grossly misinterpreted Constitution, the law and order of Supreme Court,” he said, adding that ECP has acted in excess of jurisdiction and “breached its constitutional mandate”.

SCBA President warned that such violation of Constitution can only lead to utter “chaos and anarchy” in country. “Given current political and economic crises in country, restoration of democracy and timely elections are need of hour”, he maintained.

“It is time that we must all remember that Pakistan is democratic state and representation of people of Pakistan is very foundation of our Constitution and therefore, it is incumbent upon all state institutions to uphold and protect mantle of democracy,” he added.

Published in The Daily National Courier, March, 24 2023

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