The appointment process for key positions in the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has been delayed once again. This follows the disqualification of opposition leader Omar Ayub, creating a fresh hurdle in an already stalled process.
According to the Constitution, both the prime minister and the opposition leader must consult each other to appoint the chief election commissioner (CEC) and two ECP members. Only after this consultation can the names be sent to a parliamentary committee for final approval.
However, with Omar Ayub no longer in office, the process cannot continue. Officials say the Prime Minister’s Office has been unable to move forward due to the absence of a formal opposition leader.
Delay Began in January
The appointment issue first began earlier this year. The five-year terms of the CEC and two ECP members ended on January 25. Under the 26th Constitutional Amendment, they can stay in their roles until replacements are named.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had written to Omar Ayub to begin consultations. But Ayub did not reply directly. Instead, he sent a letter to the National Assembly Speaker, asking to form a parliamentary committee. The Speaker responded that consultation between the prime minister and the opposition leader was a required step.
This disagreement added to the existing delay.
Political Vacuum Stalls Process
Now, with no opposition leader officially in place, the ECP appointment process is at a standstill. It will remain paused until a new opposition leader is elected.
Analysts warn that continued delays could affect the ECP’s performance and planning for upcoming elections. They urge all sides to resolve the matter quickly and follow the Constitution.
The ECP plays a vital role in maintaining free and fair elections. Timely appointments are essential for its smooth operation.
In other related news also read ECP Announces Timetable For By-Elections
