Malaika Reza concerned over election delay

Celina Ali

Islamabad: The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) this week expressed its concerns about the delay in elections, asserting that the parliament should not remain locked.

Malaika Reza, the Central Secretary for Human Rights of the PPP, emphasized that it is the responsibility of the Election Commission to announce the date and schedule of general elections while upholding the constitution.

She voiced her opinion that postponing elections is a departure from the constitution, and conducting elections merely to choose a single individual goes against its principles. Malaika Reza criticized the padlocking of Parliament House, deeming it an affront to the public. She warned against any form of autocracy, emphasizing that only the PPP is actively discussing the announcement of a general election date to allow the people to choose their preferred government.

Malaika Reza highlighted the pivotal role of the constitution in ensuring the rights of the state and its citizens, asserting that following the constitution is crucial and that it serves as a guarantee of human rights.

These statements come amid President Arif Alvi’s comments that general elections in January appear difficult. He expressed doubts about elections taking place in the last week of January, suggesting that the judiciary might intervene. President Alvi cited “harsh weather” in hilly areas as a potential reason for a delay and called for transparent elections and a level playing field for all political parties.

The situation is complicated by an interim government led by Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar, in place since the dissolution of the National Assembly on August 9.