Another resolution was submitted in the Senate on Friday seeking to delay general elections scheduled for February 8 due to “security challenges”.
The resolution has been submitted by Senator Hidayatullah of the Independent Parliamentary Group in the Senate Secretariat. The resolution states that concerning the steps taken to comply with the constitutional obligation to conduct general elections across the country, this “House expresses deep concern over the continuous increase in the targeting of election candidates”. It further highlighted the recent incidents of terrorism and violence across the country, including armed attacks in North Waziristan, Bajaur, Swabi and Turbat.
These incidents have created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity across the country, with candidates receiving threatening pamphlets at their residences and campaign offices, which has emerged as a disturbing dimension to the current security challenges, the resolution said. According to the text, the resolution added that the Upper House recognises that holding the general elections is a constitutional obligation, and the Constitution equally emphasises free and fair elections and ensuring the safety and unhindered participation of all stakeholders.
The resolution further stated that where the Constitution emphasises on ensuring the conduct of free elections, it ensures the fundamental right of the people to security of life and property. Senator Hidayatullah said that Article (9) of the Constitution highlights the importance of this fundamental right, which the state has to provide in all circumstances and added that the protection of life and property of the people is the state’s primary responsibility.
Hence, the Upper House urges the Election Commission of Pakistan and the Supreme Court of Pakistan to postpone the elections, he added. During the adjournment period, the Upper House calls on the government to proactively create conditions that ensure a level playing field for all political parties and candidates, while addressing security concerns, the resolution further stated.
