As the political landscape in Pakistan remains relatively calm in the lead-up to the scheduled February 8 polls, a third resolution advocating the election postponement has been presented in the Senate, intensifying the ongoing debate on the matter.
The latest resolution, tabled on Sunday, attributes the call for a delay to adverse weather conditions and the precarious security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). This development follows a series of previous resolutions raising concerns about security and violence, prompting a robust discussion within the Senate.
The issue first emerged on January 5 during a session of the upper house, where an unexpected resolution seeking to defer the general elections garnered attention. Independent Senator Dilawar Khan introduced the resolution, citing security and weather-related concerns. The resolution, although non-binding, found support primarily from senators of the Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) and raised eyebrows due to the absence of lawmakers from mainstream parties.
This initial resolution led to condemnation from politicians and legal experts who labeled it a “conspiracy against democracy.” Senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan responded by submitting a resolution emphasizing adherence to “constitutional requirements” and the timely execution of the polls. Senators from major parties, including PTI, PPP, and Jamaat-i-Islami, requisitioned a session last week to discuss the importance of holding fair and timely elections.
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On Friday, independent Senator Hidayatullah submitted a second resolution, highlighting a surge in terrorism and violence across the country, particularly incidents in North Waziristan, Bajaur, and Turbat. The resolution called for a three-month election postponement, citing the need for the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and the Supreme Court to consider security challenges and ensure a level-playing field.
Today, a third resolution has been presented to the Senate Secretariat by independent Senator Hilalur Rehman from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This resolution attributes the need for a delay to cold weather and an upsurge in terrorist incidents in KP, claiming that current conditions are not conducive for citizens to cast their votes and pose challenges for candidates engaged in campaigning.
The resolution asserts, “Due to security concerns in the country, especially in KP, candidates are facing threats of terrorist attacks while campaigning.” It emphasizes the adverse impact on the people of the province, particularly candidates from the merged districts (erstwhile FATA region).
The Senate finds itself at a crossroads as it grapples with these resolutions, each presenting unique perspectives on the feasibility and safety of conducting elections in the current environment. The political discourse surrounding this issue continues to evolve, with senators engaging in robust debates on the Senate floor. The Election Commission of Pakistan and the Supreme Court are expected to play pivotal roles in determining the fate of these resolutions and the trajectory of the upcoming elections.