Response to president’s letter: Polls possible in Oct: ECP

ISLAMABAD: In response to a letter by the president, Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Thursday said four additional months are required for conducting general elections (polls) i.e. in October honestly, justly and fairly as ordained in Article 18 (3) of the Constitution.

In a letter addressed to the president’s additional secretary, the ECP requested a meeting with the president for further deliberations. The president had written the letter to the commission to hold elections in 90 days. The letter asked the commission to propose a date for holding elections within 90 days of the dissolution of the National Assembly on April 3.

Also Read: ECP looking for ways to hold elections in 90 days

In this regard, it stated that under Article 48 (5) (A) and Article 224 (2) of the Constitution. The president shall fix a date for holding the general elections and this date shall not exceed 90 days of the dissolution of the National Assembly.

ECP again emphasized that it is not the sole authority to make decisions with regard to the conduct of elections. Also remains dependent under the law upon the federal government as well as the provincial governments for required feedback. “In case of inaction or delay on the part of any government to perform its duties and assist the commission.

Also Read: Arif Alvi asks ECP to propose dates for general elections

The delay in conduct of delimitation cannot attributed to the commission by any stretch of imagination. The delimitation of constituencies under the law requires at least four months,” the ECP letter said.