In a recent directive, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has mandated that all political parties ensure a minimum of 5% representation of women candidates on general seats for the upcoming elections scheduled for February 8.
ECP issued on Sunday, emphasizing compliance with Section 206 of the Elections Act, 2017. The directive necessitates that each party include women candidates in their list, contributing to a more inclusive and representative political process.
Allocation of Electoral Symbols Amidst Legal Challenges
The ECP faced a demanding day recently, concluding the vital process of allocating electoral symbols to registered political parties. An extension of the deadline was necessitated multiple times due to a pending decision by the Supreme Court. The court deliberated on a case involving the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, which was keen on retaining its recognizable ‘bat’ symbol.
A three-member bench, led by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, delivered a unanimous decision, overturning the Peshawar High Court’s January 10 order. This ruling effectively stripped PTI of its emblematic ‘bat’ symbol just days before the general elections. Following the verdict, the ECP completed the allocation of symbols and is now moving forward with the subsequent phases of the election process.
These developments set the stage for the general elections on February 8. The forthcoming phase will further clarify the final list of candidates participating in what promises to be a decisive electoral contest. Including a mandatory percentage of female candidates and resolving legal challenges surrounding electoral symbols mark significant steps towards a well-organized and fair election.
