ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan on Tuesday emphasized the need for the formation of a parliamentary committee to finalize the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC).
He highlighted that the government and opposition had yet to reach an agreement on potential nominees for the critical post.
Speaking to reporters outside the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) office, Khan criticized the government’s inaction, stating, “The prime minister was supposed to propose three names and consult the opposition leader, but unfortunately, he failed to take any steps.”
He expressed concern that the country was being governed in line with the contentious 26th Constitutional Amendment, which has sparked widespread debate and criticism from the opposition.
Khan underscored the legal requirement to complete the CEC appointment process within 45 days, a deadline that was already under pressure. “The tenure of the CEC, along with the members from Sindh and Balochistan, has ended. Yet, no meaningful progress has been made,” he remarked.
Furthermore, he revealed that letters had already been sent by Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Omar Ayub and Opposition Leader in the Senate Shibli Faraz, formally requesting the formation of the parliamentary committee. However, the government has allegedly failed to respond to these letters.
Khan reiterated PTI’s commitment to ensuring transparency and adherence to constitutional provisions regarding the appointments. He called on the government to act swiftly and responsibly to uphold democratic norms and strengthen electoral processes.