In a significant development, President Dr. Arif Alvi has taken a proactive step towards Pakistan’s upcoming General Elections. In a letter addressed to Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, the president has made a suggestion regarding the election date. While there were speculations about the president unilaterally announcing the election date, it’s essential to clarify that the letter is a suggestion and not an official declaration.
The Constitutional Foundation
President Alvi’s suggestion is rooted in the Constitution of Pakistan. Article 48(5) of the Constitution empowers the president to appoint an election date within 90 days of dissolving the National Assembly. According to this article, the general election to the National Assembly should be held by the 89th day from the date of dissolution, which, in this case, falls on Monday, November 6, 2023.
A Call for Constitutional Dialogue
President Alvi’s letter also extends an invitation to the Chief Election Commissioner for a meeting to discuss the constitutional obligations related to the election. This gesture emphasizes the importance of open dialogue and collaboration between key stakeholders in ensuring a smooth and transparent electoral process.
CEC’s Response and Constituency Delimitation
In response to the president’s suggestion, the Chief Election Commissioner noted that constituency delimitation was already in progress. This process is a crucial step in the lead-up to any general election and is mandated by the Constitution and the Elections Act, 2017. Constituency delimitation ensures fair representation and equal distribution of electoral constituencies, making it a fundamental aspect of a democratic election.
Looking Ahead to Pakistan’s 2023 General Elections
As the discussions surrounding the election date unfold, it’s important to recognize the significance of these constitutional processes in Pakistan’s democratic journey. The upcoming general election will shape the country’s political landscape and determine the course of governance for the next term.
