The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed concerns regarding the uncertainty about the upcoming general elections. Chairperson Hina Jilani emphasized in a statement that the Election Commission of Pakistan should quickly announce an election schedule to ensure the timely conduct of polls.
The HRCP also stressed the importance of quickly and efficiently completing the delimitation of constituencies. It cautioned against the use of this process as an excuse for further election delays.
Additionally, the Human Rights Commission expressed apprehension regarding the potential manipulation of the electoral process by institutions such as the National Database & Registration Authority. It urged the ECP to guard against any such possibility. Reports suggesting the government making changes at the institution’s helm ahead of the elections raised concerns, with many fearing it could impact the integrity of the results.
Hina Jilani’s statement underscored the growing polarization in the political environment. Far-right parties like the TLP are exacerbating religious and sectarian divisions to create political space.
The HRCP criticized the divisive and violent tactics employed by these parties to build their political identities, often targeting religious minorities and sects. The ongoing terrorist violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has made political parties reluctant to campaign in the province, a troubling pattern that should be avoided.
The commission also called upon the caretaker government not only to ensure credible elections but also to respond to the concerns that ordinary citizens are encountering.
“Besides ensuring free, fair, and credible elections, the current caretaker government’s test lies in whether it will safeguard and respect people’s right to peaceful protest and address the issues that ordinary citizens are rallying behind,” it concluded.
