By The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has come forward to oppose any attempts to postpone the upcoming elections, as recommended by the PML-N and JUI-F. The PPP has been consistently vocal about adhering to the January timeline set by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for the elections.
Faisal Karim Kundi, a prominent PPP leader and former deputy NA speaker, emphasized that the ECP is constitutionally obligated and cannot delay elections based on the demands of two political parties.
He expressed concerns that such postponements might be seen as an effort to undermine the electoral process, and he expressed disappointment in the ECP for not yet announcing a final election date.
Kundi firmly stated, “The ECP is legally bound and cannot operate at the behest of two individuals. Therefore, elections should proceed as scheduled. It is high time we put an end to any ‘selection’ process and move forward with the elections.”
Furthermore, the PPP openly criticized the PML-N for what they perceived as a change in stance regarding the elections. This shift was evident when PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif, following his much-anticipated return to the country after a four-year exile, refrained from addressing the upcoming general elections during his speech at Minar-E-Pakistan.
Kundi pointed out that the PML-N had previously advocated for early general elections before their leader’s return. He expressed disappointment in Nawaz Sharif for avoiding any discussion of the forthcoming polls, scheduled for the end of January 2024, according to the ECP.
Kundi remarked, “Nawaz Sharif’s silence on elections suggests a lack of confidence in his popularity. As a prominent political leader, he should have addressed the elections, but instead, his speech resembled a victory celebration.”
Despite addressing various challenges facing Pakistan and pledging to address them when in power, Nawaz Sharif did not mention his party’s intentions or strategies for the upcoming elections. Kundi, taking a dig at Sharif’s speech, likened the gathering to a ‘coronation ceremony.’
He also expressed concern that the caretaker administration in Punjab, responsible for ensuring fair elections, had a role in organizing a welcome rally for the PML-N leader.
Kundi assured that this time, electoral fraud would be difficult, as a substantial portion of the voters is composed of young people determined to protect their rights.
As for allegations of ‘selection’ in the electoral process, Kundi clarified, “Drawing a crowd for a public gathering is different from securing votes in the ballot boxes. If you’ve decided on a candidate, just announce it. Why spend a significant amount of money on elections during an economic crisis?”
Additionally, Kundi emphasized that the PPP is committed to ensuring all political parties have a fair chance in the elections. He noted that while the PTI was involved in a controversial event on May 9, the final decision on its participation would be made by the courts and the ECP.
Kundi affirmed that the PPP had completed its preparations and was ready to compete in the upcoming elections, leaving a message to its political rivals.
