ECP rejects MQM-P extension plea

ISLAMABAD:

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday rejected Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan's (MQM-P) request for a two-month extension to hold its intra-party elections, with the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) questioning the grounds for delay and warning of serious consequences for non-compliance.

A three-member bench headed by the CEC heard the case pertaining to MQM-P's intra-party polls. Officials from the ECP's Political Finance Wing, along with party representatives, appeared before the commission.

During the proceedings, the CEC asked, "What war is being fought in Pakistan? We cannot grant two months," directing that convener Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui or his lawyer must appear at the next hearing, cautioning that failure to do so could lead to serious repercussions.

Director General Political Finance Masood Sherwani informed the bench that MQM-P last conducted intra-party elections on October 16, 2021, while under its party constitution, fresh elections were required by October 16, 2025.