PPP leader Faisal Karim Kundi emphasized the constitutional obligation of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to conduct timely elections, challenging the notion of postponements desired by minority political interests. The party’s insistence on adherence to constitutional parameters comes amidst heightened demands for a specific election schedule, countering delays influenced by individual parties’ preferences.
Previously, the PPP rallied in Karachi, asserting the urgency of an official election date declaration. PPP Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari vocally criticized efforts favouring Nawaz Sharif’s political resurgence, asserting such manoeuvres compromise democratic principles and extend the electoral process unjustifiably. Despite general elections scheduled for next January, the absence of a definite date has fueled the party’s concerns, compounded by opposition from factions like the JUI-F and tacit support for delays by the PML-N, citing procedural and environmental factors.
Accusations of Undemocratic Practices and Delay Tactics
In light of the ECP’s non-committal to a specific election timeline, the PPP has accused the commission of premeditating electoral theft. Kundi expressed disappointment with the ECP’s hesitance, condemning the undue influence of two political factions over the electoral schedule. He reinforced that constitutional directives, not individual parties, should dictate the ECP’s actions.
This assertion directly responded to Nawaz Sharif’s recent comments on electoral procedures, underscoring the ongoing preparations, including census completion and boundary delineations. Kundi criticized the overt focus on these aspects as a diversion from constitutional mandates, equating the delay to a repeated undermining of democratic processes. He affirmed that electoral power should unequivocally reside with the populace, ensuring their right to select or reject candidates without imposed biases or undue delays.
