The Lahore High Court has suspended the Election Commission of Pakistan’s decision to appoint Returning Officers (ROs) and District Returning Officers (DROs) from the bureaucracy for the 2024 general elections.
This move, prompted by a petition from Umair Niazi of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), raises concerns about the fairness of the electoral process.
Justice Ali Baqir Najafi, in a detailed five-page interim order, highlighted key issues surrounding the use of bureaucracy in elections. He pointed out the significant costs incurred by the nation in conducting elections and expressed fears that disputes over results could lead to the wastage of substantial national resources.
The court order emphasized the essential role of the electoral watchdog in ensuring transparent and fair elections, providing equal opportunities to candidates and voters alike. The court’s concern underscored the potential risk to democracy if the electoral process fails to produce the desired outcomes.
Recognizing the gravity of the issue as a national concern, the court has elevated the case to the Chief Justice for consideration by a larger bench. Meanwhile, the directive to recruit bureaucracy for election purposes is on hold pending further review by the judiciary.
This judicial intervention aims to address critical concerns about the electoral process, highlighting the necessity for transparency and fairness in conducting elections to safeguard the integrity of the democratic process in Pakistan.
