Another resolution seeks election delay

Another resolution has been submitted in the Senate, seeking a three-month postponement of the general elections scheduled for February 8 due to winter and security threats.

The resolution, presented by independent Senator Hilal-ur-Rehman from the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata), argues that severe cold and snowfall in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) next month would impede residents from voting.

Senator Hilal-ur-Rehman highlights the challenges in running election campaigns, citing security concerns and the fear of terrorist attacks.  The resolution emphasizes that incidents of terrorism have created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity in the country.

He says the distribution of threatening pamphlets in the homes and election offices of candidates adds another worrisome dimension to the existing security issues.

Read SC moved against Senate's election postponement resolution

While acknowledging the constitutional responsibility of holding timely elections, the assembly emphasizes the state's responsibility for protecting the lives and property of the people. Senator Hilal-ur-Rehman urges the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to postpone the elections for three months.

Four resolutions regarding the upcoming elections have been presented in the Senate. Three of them call for a delay in the polls, while the fourth, submitted by the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), advocates for timely elections.

On January 5, the Senate passed a resolution, twice, to postpone the scheduled vote on February 8, citing harsh winter weather in K-P and Balochistan and the prevailing law and order situation.

Read  Senate seeks to delay Feb 8 vote

The resolution received support from lawmakers across various political parties, including the PPP, PTI, PML-Q, and BAP, as well as independent senators and those representing the former FATA.

However, PML-N Senator Afnanullah vehemently opposed the resolution, citing historical instances where elections proceeded even during challenging times, such as World War II and periods of terrorism in 2008, 2013, and 2018.

The unexpected development cast a shadow over the previously settled February 8 election date, established following discussions between the ECP and President Dr Arif Alvi.

On January 6, JI’s Mushtaq Ahmed Khan formally submitted an application to the Supreme Court, urging a thorough examination of the constitutional validity of the Senate's resolution and initiation of contempt proceedings against those seeking an election delay.