The act of removing Chairman PTI Imran Khan from the Premiership was done for the first time in the country history through a democratic process i.e., no-confidence motion. However, after that the severe criticism on the government’s subsequent actions made it clear that the violation of democratic values continues in Pakistan by the present government.
Imran Khan dissolved the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assemblies and demanded that the Election Commission conduct the elections within 90 days, however, along with the federal and provincial governments, the Election Commission also went against the constitution and gave October as the date for the elections.
The President of the State, Dr. Arif Alvi, had already given the date of the elections, which the Supreme Court declared to be correct up to the extent of Punjab. However, since the Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had signed the summary of dissolution of the assembly, the matter of giving the date of the elections was also entrusted to him.
The recent decision by the Supreme Court of Pakistan to nullify the Election Commission’s order delaying the elections is a victory for democracy and the rule of law. Chief Justice of Pakistan Umar Atta Bandial and his fellow judges once again proved their unwavering commitment to uphold the Constitution and protect the rights of the people.
The historic decision was read out by Chief Justice Umar Atta Bandial. 20 billion for elections is a clear indication of the court’s determination to ensure timely and fair conduct of elections. The court’s decision to strike down the ECP’s order as unconstitutional and uphold the 90-day period for holding elections is an important step towards ensuring that the electoral process is not unduly affected or delayed.
The court’s decision also highlights the importance of an independent judiciary to ensure accountability of all branches of government. The fact is that the court heard the stand of all the parties. Moreover, the court also directed the caretaker government of Mohsin Naqvi to assist the Election Commission to conduct the elections in the province and to submit a complete security plan to the Chief Secretary and IG Punjab by April 10.
The court’s decision also highlights the importance of an independent judiciary to ensure accountability of all branches of government. The fact is that the court heard the stand of all the parties. Moreover, the court also directed the caretaker government of Mohsin Naqvi to assist the Election Commission to conduct the elections in the province and to submit a complete security plan to the Chief Secretary and IG Punjab by April 10.
The Supreme Court’s decision to ensure a secure and stable environment for free and fair elections is a reminder that democracy and the rule of law must always be protected. It is heartening to see that the court is committed to ensure that the electoral process is free from any undue influence or interference and that the rights of the people are protected.
