Pakistan’s senate put forth another resolution this Sunday, calling for a delay in the general elections scheduled to be held in February. This is the fourth such resolution to be tabled in recent weeks, indicating growing momentum for a postponement of the forthcoming elections.
The latest appeal for a delay was championed by independent senator Hilalur Rehman who hails from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). Citing Dawn, Rehman argued that “harsh weather,” a “worsening security situation” and a surge in “terrorist attacks” in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa justified a postponement of the elections. He was of the opinion that these circumstances were undermining candidates’ capacity to effectively campaign.
Despite the fact that these resolutions hold no obligation over the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), they have been described as a “conspiracy against democracy” by many parties and candidates.
Scheduled for February 8, the upcoming elections are surrounded by rampant speculation. There is widespread concern about potential “massive rigging” by state authorities. Former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s party, Pakistan Tahreek-i-Insaf is under special scrutiny as Khan continues to serve a jail term in the wake of a corruption conviction. He was dethroned from his premier position following a vote of no-confidence, enjoying the support of 174 members of Parliament. The ECP has refused many PTI leaders’ nomination papers, including that of Khan himself.
Post Khan’s removal from office, Shehbaz Sharif has taken up the mantle of the prime minister of Pakistan. Earlier, Sharif led the opposition within the National Assembly. Sharif too is neck-deep in corruption allegations.