PA seeks completion of LG polls process

Adopts resolution that states delay will hit finalisation of development proposals

KARACHI:

The Sindh Assembly on Monday expressed serious concern on the delay in completing local government elections and adopted a resolution to expedite the entire local government (LG) elections process, aiming to conclude it by the end of the first week of June.

The resolution, proposed by PPP MPA Ghanwer Khan Leghari, came after the newly-elected local bodies representatives took oath in their respective constituencies.

"The government of Sindh should promptly raise this matter with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). As the financial year draws to a close, it is imperative that mayors, deputy mayors, chairmen, and vice chairmen of the councils finalise development proposals," states the resolution.

Sindh Irrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro addressed the issue, highlighting that the electoral process took approximately 11 months, leaving the functions of local bodies in a state of uncertainty.

"Notifications for a few union committees in Karachi division have not yet been issued. The ECP has scheduled June 10 for the oath-taking of reserved seats. This appears to be a delaying tactic in running the functions of local bodies. The ECP should reconsider the decision and expedite the process," Shoro urged, noting that many union council chairmen are facing problems due to the absence of offices.

Mohammad Hussain of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) expressed support for the resolution and voiced concerns over the ECP's handling of the elections, stating, "The Election Commission remained silent since 2020 despite orders from the apex court." He emphasised that his party protested at various forums to empower the local bodies.

PPP Minister Ismail Rahu drew a parallel between Punjab and Sindh elections, stating, "LG elections in Punjab were held without delay, while it took five months here in Sindh to take the oath."

MMA MPA Abdul Rashid also held the PPP-led Sindh government responsible for the delay in the LG elections, stating, "The government came up with various excuses, including the non-availability of schools and police force, to postpone the polls."

He added that the ECP had, on multiple occasions, expressed incompetence in obeying court orders. "Had the Election Commission functioned as an independent body, the elections would have been held on time," he alleged, condemning any form of horse trading in the name of elections.

Imdad Pitafi of the PPP criticised the MMA MPA, stating, "I find it astonishing that those who only have one seat are leveling allegations of horse trading. Let the electoral process proceed, and we will see who garners support for the mayoral votes."

Meanwhile, Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah praised the services of the chief election commissioner and appealed for his assistance. "The chief election commissioner has accomplished many commendable tasks. We respectfully request him to finalise all local government elections in June without any further delay," Shah stated.

Earlier, members from different political parties submitted their call attention notices on public interest issues. Minister for Transport and Information, Sharjeel Inam Memon, also briefed the house on initiatives in the transport department, including the government's plan to introduce taxis for women.

The speaker subsequently adjourned the house indefinitely.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, May 23^rd, 2023.