ISLAMABAD: Resolution for postponement of general election in country has been adopted with majority vote in Senate. Senator Dilawar Khan tabled resolution seeking postponement of election.

Resolution said weather is very cold in most of areas.

Therefore, it is difficult to participate in election process in these areas. Dilawar Khan said members of JUI-F and Mohsin Dawar were attacked. Attacks have been made on security forces in Balochistan. Situation is very tense in different areas of KP and Balochistan.

Meanwhile, in a statement released following the passing of the resolution, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) maintained that nothing except the Supreme Court's (SC) orders could alter the election schedule. The next general elections will be held on February 8, it added.

"The Senate resolution holds no value," maintained the electoral watchdog.

Senate said that election be not held without resolving problems. Election schedule for February be postponed. Election Commission should implement Senate resolution on postponement of election. Senate expresses confidence on Election Commission.

The resolution, presented by independent Senator Dilawar Khan, was opposed by Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Senator Afnan Ullah Khan. The upper house of parliament has a total of 100 members, out of which a mere 14 were present during today’s session.

The resolution read that, “The Constitution of Pakistan upholds the right to vote for every citizen of Pakistan. The Constitutional duty assigned to the Election Commission of Pakistan to conduct free and fair elections is contingent upon inclusivity and ensuring the participation of all regions and people,” it maintained, adding that the “voter turnout in colder areas remains notably high during moderate weather conditions”.

PML-N Senator Afnanullah while opposing resolution said I want to correct causes of Senator Dilawar Khan.  Security situation in country is not good. Situation in 2008 and 2013 was worse than today. Election will never take place if it is postponed on pretext of security. Senate adopted resolution tabled by Senator Dilawar Khan with majority vote.

Published in The Daily National Courier, January, 06 2024

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