In the past few days, a strange, if not mysterious, resolution surfaced in Pakistan’s political arena when a decision was made to postpone the Senate elections.
The approval of this resolution created a buzz nationwide, leaving everyone bewildered as if the nation is caught between a rock and a hard place. Just when the expectations were high, after intense speculation, heated debates, grand promises, and a significant delay, the Election Commission finally announced a date for holding general elections in the country.
All political parties and stakeholders are gearing up for the elections, and suddenly, a resolution to indefinitely postpone the Senate elections was approved in the upper house of Parliament.
It was an entirely lighthearted move, later revealed to be orchestrated by members of a party from Balochistan. The Senate symbolizes the unity of the federation and the provinces, with the expectation that individuals possessing knowledge, wisdom, thoughtfulness, and understanding of the country’s unity and the strength of the state would be present in the Senate.
Therefore, despite the lower house of Parliament, the National Assembly, being the primary legislative body, the Senate’s existence continues, consistently fulfilling its constitutional duties.
However, incidents like this resolution, coupled with amusing actions, legislation, and issues brought under discussion in the Senate, raise concerns about the lack of commitment of members to the spirit and demands of this vital institution. It underscores the severe absence of individuals and members aligned with its essence and demands, as evidenced by the frivolous nature of their actions.
It raises questions about the priorities of political parties. Senate elections are infamous for the misuse of money and resources, leading to questionable decisions and the perception that these actions contribute to the detriment and waste of time for the nation.
Engaging in horse trading, lobbying, and using money to influence the appointment of senators or securing Senate membership from wealthy individuals are deplorable practices. The consequences of such actions become evident in subsequent events, especially when faced with resolutions like the one at hand.
The resolution approved in the name of weather conditions and the state of peace and security has sparked nationwide uncertainty to an extent that, despite all doubts and expressions of disapproval, its effects have not yet dissipated. It signifies a reckless move against national unity and stability, drawing unanimous condemnation from all political parties.
This resolution has overshadowed all efforts and significant government expenditures and arrangements for holding elections until now, turning the political scene into a battlefield on the first day. It is a precarious time for the country, with conflicts and reservations prevalent everywhere. In this delicate situation, efforts are being made to prevent the spread of chaos and anarchy by moving towards elections.
If, unfortunately, these efforts are hindered or halted, it could lead to increased instability and severe unrest for the country and the nation, making it challenging to overcome.
At a time when the destination of elections is within reach, any attempt to divert the election process towards another path may result in the worst anarchy, such as preventing the convened session of the National Assembly in Dhaka after the Eastern Pakistan elections, which could be detrimental to the country and the nation.
It is hoped that the members of the Senate, with the approval of the new resolution to dispel the effects of the previous thoughtless resolution, will also face rigorous scrutiny from the media and the public. This is necessary to discourage any future members from engaging in such irresponsible actions.