Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar confirmed that there would be no delays in the upcoming general elections, which are set to occur on schedule. This statement comes amidst increasing demands for a swift disclosure of the election date.
Previously, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) stated that the elections would take place in the final week of January, even though this was almost three months past the constitutional deadline. However, they have yet to provide a precise date. The initial plan was for the elections to be held in November, but these were postponed due to a redefinition of constituencies following a new census. The ECP has not finalized the voting date, which is essential for the country’s struggling economy.
Since the legislative assemblies dissolved last month, two prominent parties, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have been urging the ECP to set a date for the elections.
He further stressed the importance of ensuring fair elections and stated that all political entities have the right to campaign and gain public endorsement. He also mentioned that the government would not interfere if someone were legally excluded from the political landscape.
The prime minister emphasized robust law enforcement and highlighted his government’s efforts to combat illegal financial activities in collaboration with the military. He underscored the significance of democratic practices within political parties for the country’s democratic health.
Addressing personal queries, PM Kakar shared that while he had engaged with numerous political figures, he had never considered joining a party. Yet, he possesses the right to do so as a citizen. He dismissed claims of bias towards the PML-N by the caretaker government and praised Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir for his leadership.
Lastly, PM Kakar disclosed that in the 2013 and 2018 elections, he voted for PTI, aiming to address Pakistan’s infrastructure, economy, and international relations challenges.
