CEC Raja Accuses Federal Government of Sabotaging Islamabad Local Elections
Election Commissioner asserts independence amid disputes over staffing and electoral code violations.
1Election Sabotage Allegations
Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja has publicly accused the federal government of attempting to sabotage upcoming local government elections in Islamabad. Despite these tensions, the Election Commission of Pakistan confirmed that polls remain scheduled for December 20. The last local government term expired in February 2021, causing significant delays in democratic processes.
2Staffing and Authority Disputes
The conflict escalated after the federal government reportedly ordered teachers not to participate in election duties. Commissioner Raja questioned the source of alternative staff, asserting that the commission issues directives to the government rather than receiving them. Raja continues to serve as CEC following the 26th Amendment, despite his five-year term ending in January.
3Code of Conduct Violations
During a hearing regarding the NA-77 by-election, officials addressed alleged violations by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar. The commission noted that ministers and MNAs reportedly roamed constituencies, potentially violating electoral codes. Counsel for the minister stated he was on an official foreign visit to Turkiye, prompting the commission to demand his personal appearance.
4Accountability for Local Officials
The CEC criticized the Gujranwala deputy commissioner for failing to monitor the minister’s helicopter landing within the cantonment area. Raja warned that the commission would take strict action against the deputy commissioner, the returning officer, and the district monitoring officer. A fact-finding inquiry report will be provided to all involved parties shortly.
5Warning to Political Representatives
PML-N MPA Asma Naz faced stern warnings from the commission regarding her presence inside a polling station. The CEC cautioned that such actions could lead to the loss of her position and contempt proceedings. He emphasized that these tactics are counterproductive, noting that they decrease rather than increase support among the local electorate.
6Updated Political Party Registry
The Election Commission of Pakistan released an updated list of 160 registered political parties. Notably, the names of party heads for MQM-P and PkMAP were removed due to pending intra-party election issues. The commission is currently reviewing responses from these parties to determine if they remain compliant with constitutional requirements for continued registration.
7Regulatory Oversight of Parties
Several major parties, including the PTI and Pakistan Sunni Tehreek, appear on the registry without listed heads. The commission previously stripped the PTI of its electoral symbol following disputes over internal polls. Meanwhile, the list includes defunct groups like the Islami Jamhoori Ittehad, highlighting ongoing administrative challenges in maintaining accurate party records.
8Next Steps for Commission
The commission adjourned the NA-77 hearing until December 1, granting the minister's counsel ten days to prepare. All accused members must appear in person to respond to the fact-finding report. These proceedings underscore the commission's commitment to enforcing electoral laws despite ongoing friction with the federal government regarding administrative control and oversight.
Original article: Dawn — CEC Raja Accuses Federal Government of Sabotaging Islamabad Local Elections