ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) Special Secretary, Dr Syed Asif Hussain, emphatically rebuffed allegations raised by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, asserting that a level-playing field is assured for all political participants in the upcoming February 8 elections.
Responding to the PTI’s plea urging the Supreme Court to initiate contempt of court proceedings against key officials, Dr Asif Hussain urged the apex court to “dismiss the contempt petition with a cost.”
Providing a comprehensive response, Dr Asif Hussain clarified that following the Supreme Court’s directive on December 22, 2023, the ECP promptly engaged with a PTI delegation to address their concerns. Assurances were given during this meeting that an unbiased and equitable environment would be provided to all political entities and candidates, ensuring a fair electoral process.
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The ECP’s special secretary outlined that the commission issued specific instructions related to the PTI’s complaints to various authorities, including chief commissioners, chief secretaries, provincial election commissioners, inspector generals, district returning officers, and returning officers.
Highlighting the proactive approach of the ECP, Dr Asif Hussain revealed that 33 complaints were received from the PTI by December 26, 2023, and prompt actions were taken on each of them. He further presented statistical data, revealing that out of 843 PTI candidates submitting nomination papers for the National Assembly election, 598 were accepted, and 245 were rejected. Similarly, for provincial assembly seats, out of 1,777 PTI candidates, 1,398 were accepted, and 379 were rejected, culminating in an acceptance ratio of 76.18%.
This detailed response from the ECP aimed to dispel any doubts about the transparency and fairness of the electoral process. It underlines the commission’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring an inclusive environment for all political contenders.
