Mahmood Khan Achakzai, supported by the PTI and Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) for Pakistan’s presidential election, called on the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to delay the vote until the electoral college is fully constituted.
In a correspondence to Chief Election Commissioner Sikander Sultan Raja, Achakzai highlighted that the electoral college, as mandated by law and the Constitution, remains incomplete due to unfilled reserved seats in the National Assembly and provincial assemblies. He argued that proceeding with the presidential election under these conditions would contravene fundamental rights and constitutional principles, labelling such action as illegal and contrary to the Constitution’s spirit.
Achakzai, contesting the election against PPP leader Asif Ali Zardari, underscored the necessity of filling these seats for the electoral college’s completion. He further pointed to a Peshawar High Court (PHC) stay order on the reserved seats, suggesting it would likely result in a decision favourable to the PTI-backed alliance. Achakzai’s appeal for election postponement cited justice, fair play, and equity, given the incomplete status of the electoral college.
Achakza’s request comes as the presidential elections facing off against the favoured Asif Ali Zardari are set for tomorrow.
Presidential elections involve votes from assemblies and both Parliament houses. The general elections on February 8 saw a surprising performance from PTI-backed independents, who secured many seats nationwide. Despite running as independents due to a Supreme Court ruling affecting PTI’s eligibility for election symbols, these candidates later aligned with the SIC to claim reserved seats in assemblies.
