Preparations Underway: ECP Sets Timeline for Presidential Elections

After the conclusion of the 2024 nationwide general polls and the ensuing preliminary results, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is swiftly gearing up to organize the upcoming presidential elections and convene the inaugural session of all assemblies in adherence to constitutional obligations.

In the wake of significant criticism surrounding the general polls, the ECP is determined to uphold the integrity of the electoral process by diligently preparing for the presidential elections and addressing pertinent issues.

The ECP, currently deliberating on matters concerning reserved seats belonging to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed candidates following the party’s merger into the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), has initiated preparations for the presidential polls.

A recent declaration issued by the top electoral authority announced that a public notice, accompanied by the schedule for the presidential polls, will be issued on March 1st. Nomination papers for the presidential election event will be accepted until March 2, 12 noon, with nominees instructed to submit their documents to the presiding officers.

Furthermore, the ECP has extended the nomination process to candidates aspiring to contest the presidential elections, fostering inclusivity and participation in the democratic process.

Highlighting the constitutional obligations, the commission emphasized the mandatory conduct of presidential elections within 30 days, and the convening of the first session of all assemblies within 21 days after the general elections, as stipulated in Articles 91 and 130 of the Constitution.

The formation of all assemblies on February 29 signifies the completion of the requisite electoral college for the presidential polls, marking a pivotal milestone in the electoral process.

However, challenges persist as the National Assembly Secretariat’s attempts to convene the lower house of parliament’s session faced hurdles following President Arif Alvi’s refusal. Legal restrictions prevented the commencement of parliamentary business on the 21st day of the general elections under Article 91 of the Constitution.

Amidst these developments, unresolved issues surrounding the allocation of reserved seats to the SIC have added complexity to the electoral landscape. While the ECP has allocated reserved seats to political parties, deliberations regarding the SIC’s reserved quota, following the inclusion of independent candidates backed by the PTI, are ongoing.

The ECP’s commitment to addressing electoral challenges transparently and in accordance with legal protocols underscores its pivotal role in ensuring the integrity and fairness of the electoral process. As preparations for the presidential elections continue, the nation awaits a decisive step towards democratic stability and governance continuity.