In the face of looming uncertainties about the electoral timetable, the US has prompted Pakistani officials to facilitate “prompt, free, and unbiased” elections as per the national statutes. In a response to a query about President Arif Alvi’s recent recommendations concerning the election timeline, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized the importance of adhering to human rights, basic liberties, and the rule of law. Miller reiterated the US’ global stance, urging for a lawful progression of the electoral procedure in Pakistan.
Alvi, in correspondence with Chief Election Commissioner Sikander Sultan Raja, highlighted his constitutional authority to schedule a general assembly election within 90 days post the dissolution of the current assembly, suggesting a deadline of November 6, 2023. Nevertheless, he urged the Election Commission of Pakistan to seek the Supreme Court’s advice regarding the poll date, noting the necessity for new delimitations according to the recent census data.
Read: President Arif Alvi Proposes November 6th for General Elections Amidst Constitutional Clash
International Interest and Concerns on the Pakistani Electoral Process
The forthcoming elections have attracted international attention and concern for maintaining credibility and transparency. British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, emphasized the significance of lawful elections in a recent meeting with Raja in Islamabad, a sentiment echoed in a social media post. This follows a previous meeting between US Ambassador Donald Blome and Raja, where Blome assured the US’ support for impartial elections and stressed the decision of leadership selection resides with the Pakistani populace.
The election date remains contentious, especially after the early dissolution of the National Assembly on August 9. Current regulations stipulate a 60-day deadline for elections post full legislative tenure, extended to three months in cases of early dissolution. However, the recent approval of the 7th Population and Housing Census 2023 by the Council of Common Interest hints at a probable delay in the general elections.
