THE verdict of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to declare election of NA-75 Sialkot (Daska) as null and void and hold fresh polls on March 18 was not entirely unexpected as the election was widely marred by controversies and violence, raising suspicions about manipulation of the results.
The order issued using the powers conferred on the ECP under Article 218 (3) of the Constitution and Article 19 (1) of the Election Act, 2017 noted that “on the day of the election, chaos was spread in the entire constituency.”
The decision obviously has different connotations for the government and the opposition but Minister for Information and Broadcasting Senator Shibli Faraz has aptly pointed out that this is a clear proof that institutions are ‘free’ and their working is free from pressure from the governmental authorities.
This is in fulfilment of the pledges repeatedly made by PTI to work for strengthening of the institutions as the country cannot make progress and prosper without letting the institutions to work independently within the confines of the Constitution and the law.
The verdict should not be construed as a victory for any party or candidate but victory of the system, which should be the preferred goal of every party.
No one should worry about gains or losses as re-election would be held after three weeks and electorates of the constituency would make their decision known at that time.
The directions of the ECP to the Establishment Division and Federal/Punjab Governments for suspension and transfer of relevant senior officials and its resolve to proceed against the presiding officers, who went missing with bags of votes and election material, is also significant and will have a far-reaching impact.
It will go a long way in conveying a clear message to all those who are deputed for election related assignments to perform their responsibilities strictly in accordance with the laid down procedure, the law and the Constitution and that violations or negligence will have serious consequences and penalties.
If this practice continues, it will contribute towards the cherished dream of every Pakistani to make the entire electoral process reliable and trustworthy.
The ruling party has announced to consult its legal team on the decision of re-election to which it is entitled to but the better sense demands focus on electioneering as the re-polling date is fast approaching.
We hope the two sides would refrain from raising tension in the Constituency, allowing people to exercise their right to vote in a peaceful atmosphere.
