Pakistan Senate approves resolution seeking to delay general elections scheduled for Feb 8

Pakistan's Senate on Friday (Jan 5) approved a resolution that seeks to delay the general elections which were originally scheduled for Feb 8.

The decision was taken citing security concerns and harsh weather conditions.

The resolution, presented by Senator Dilawar Khan, received the approval of a majority of lawmakers.

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The move was however opposed by Pakistan Information Minister Murtaza Solangi and PML-N Senator Afnan Ullah, who were present in the House.

The resolution stated, "The Constitution upheld the right to vote for every citizen of Pakistan and the Election Commission of Pakistan was bound to conduct free and fair polls contingent upon inclusivity and ensuring the participation of all regional people."

Various political parties, as per the resolution, had raised concerns related to weather conditions and how it would lead to difficulties in ensuring participation of voters in the cold areas at the time of the electoral process.

"The vote turnout in colder areas remains notably high during the moderate weather conditions. January and February are recognised as the coldest months in the majority of the areas in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa," it stated.

‘Security Concerns’

Senator Khan expressed "great concern" over recent attacks targeting Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F (JUI-F) chief Fazlur Rehman, former lawmaker Mohsin Dawar, and other political figures.

"Recent attempts on the lives of JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman, former lawmaker Mohsin Dawar, and other political figures haveraised concerns about the safety of political leaders."

"The Ministry of Interior has conveyed serious threats to the lives of prominent politicians increasing the challenges faced by political parties in exercising their right to a free and fair election," the resolution noted.

It further highlighted that there was an increase in the number of attacks on security forces and citizens, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

The senator said alerts had been issued by intelligence agencies indicating "imminent threats" of militant attacks on election rallies, which could have a potential impact on the safety of citizens and the democratic electoral process.

"The intelligence agencies have warned of militant attacks threats on election rallies in both provinces".

"The Senate of Pakistan hereby resolves that the conduct in elections without addressing legitimate concerns, facilitating sufficient opportunities for election campaign and guaranteeing the safety of politicians and citizens would amount to violation of fundamental rights," the resolution stated.

"The election schedule may be postponed to facilitate the effective participation of people from all areas ofPakistan and belonging to all political shades,"it demanded.

(With inputs from agencies)