Pakistan’s Chief Election Commissioner, Sikandar Sultan Raja, in response to a recent Supreme Court decision, clarified that there has been no suggestion of delaying the upcoming elections. He affirmed that the electoral schedule is prepared and will be released soon.
This clarification follows the Supreme Court’s suspension of the Lahore High Court’s decision related to returning officers and district returning officers. The Court has directed the Election Commission to issue the electoral schedule promptly.
Speaking with journalists at the Election Commission after the court’s decision, Raja remarked on the overall readiness of the electoral process. He also referred to two reports reviewed concerning the Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad, noting no significant issues were found.
Raja also highlighted concerns about the security situation in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Despite these concerns, he expressed confidence that a level playing field is being provided for all political parties, including PTI. This acknowledgment comes amidst heightened tensions and escalating security incidents in these regions.
The Chief Election Commissioner encouraged parties with objections to any Returning Officer to approach the Election Commission for potential changes.
Raja’s remarks came after his meeting with Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa at the Supreme Court, which was also attended by Justices Sardar Tariq and Ijazul Ahsan, as well as Attorney General Mansoor Usman. The Chief Election Commissioner informed the judges about the Lahore High Court’s stay order during this meeting.
Election Commissioner Highlights Security Concerns in Balochistan Amid Election Preparations
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