ECP Warns Lawmakers on Asset Statements

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has issued a final warning to lawmakers who have not yet submitted their statements of assets and liabilities for the year 2022-23. Failure to comply with this legal requirement may lead to suspension for current lawmakers and disqualification for former members of parliament. Out of the 125 lawmakers who received notices, only 46 have submitted their statements so far.

The ECP has decided to adjourn the hearing until June 11, providing defaulting lawmakers with one last opportunity to meet the deadline. Notable figures among those who have been issued notices include Marriyum Aurangzeb, Rana Sanaullah, and Khurram Dastgir.

In a separate development, the ECP is reviewing a plea from former Punjab Chief Minister Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi for a re-poll in PP-32 due to alleged rigging during the by-election. The petition alleges irregularities, such as votes cast in the names of deceased individuals.

Moreover, the ECP has reserved its decision on a petition filed by ex-MPA Gohram Bugti challenging the victory of Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti in PB-10. The tribunal is currently deliberating on whether to refer the case to another tribunal.

Additionally, the ECP is gearing up to address objections regarding the third intra-party elections conducted by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in less than two years. Notices have been served to PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and Raoof Hasan, the election commissioner for the party's intra-party polls held on March 3.

The Election Commission of Pakistan's strict stance on the submission of statements of assets and liabilities underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the country's political landscape. Lawmakers are urged to adhere to the legal requirements to maintain the integrity of the democratic process and uphold public trust.