ECP Blames PTI for Intra-Party Election Delays

In a significant development regarding the internal affairs of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI), the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has pointed fingers at the party for the ongoing delays in resolving the issue of its intra-party elections. The ECP, which is the top regulatory body overseeing elections in the country, has expressed its frustration over PTI's failure to comply with constitutional requirements despite numerous reminders.

The Constitution of Pakistan, specifically Article 208 and 209 of the Election Act 2017, mandates that all registered political parties must conduct intra-party elections every five years. The ECP has been lenient, providing ample time for PTI to fulfill this legal obligation. However, the party has not managed to address this crucial matter, which raises questions about its internal governance.

Historically, PTI was expected to hold its intra-party elections on June 13, 2021. Unfortunately, these elections did not take place within the required timeframe. The ECP issued several reminders, and eventually, a show-cause notice was sent to PTI on July 27, 2021. In response, the party requested a one-year extension, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as a reason for the delay. The ECP accepted this request, granting a new deadline of June 13, 2022.

Fast forward to June 2022, PTI submitted documents for its intra-party elections under Form-65. However, these documents were found to be incomplete, further complicating the situation. The ECP has been diligent in its efforts to resolve this issue, holding multiple hearings where PTI consistently requested more time, leading to further postponements.

In a recent hearing, PTI once again reiterated its request for an adjournment, which has prompted the ECP to emphasize its commitment to resolving the matter legally. The commission has made it clear that it is making every effort to ensure that PTI adheres to the legal requirements set forth by the Constitution.

This ongoing saga raises important questions about the internal democracy within political parties in Pakistan. The ability of a party to conduct timely intra-party elections is crucial for maintaining transparency and accountability. As the ECP continues to push for compliance, it remains to be seen how PTI will navigate this challenge and whether it can restore confidence among its members and supporters.

The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to democratic principles within political parties. The ECP's insistence on compliance is not just about following the law; it is about fostering a culture of accountability and transparency that is essential for the health of Pakistan's political landscape. As citizens, it is vital to stay informed and engaged with these developments, as they ultimately shape the future of governance in the country.