ISLAMABAD (HRNW) – In connection with the holding of the elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, President Dr Arif Alvi asked on Friday Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to direct the concerned authorities to assist the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
In a letter, President Alvi mentioned the holding of elections in the two provinces as per the timeframe, in compliance with the Supreme Court’s order dated March 1, 2023 was essential to avoid further complications, including contempt of court.
The president said he was writing the letter as events had taken place in the recent past involving glaring violations of fundamental and human rights that were highlighted by the print, electronic and social media and needed to be brought to the prime minister’s notice to ensure remedial measures and preventive action.
The president said the elections of provincial assemblies, in case of their dissolution under Article 105 or Article 112, were required to be held within 90 days under Article 224 (2) of the Constitution.
He added that the Supreme Court of Pakistan vide its order dated 1st March, 2023 had directed the ECP to propose date(s) to the president for holding the poll within 90 days or on a date that deviates to barest minimum from aforesaid deadline.