New National Assembly
ISLAMABAD: President Arif Alvi is constitutionally obligated to convene a new session of the National Assembly by Feb 29, with the National Assembly Secretariat ready for the arrival of newly elected members.
The political landscape is buzzing with negotiations among mainstream parties, vying for over 150 coveted positions, including the prime minister, after the Feb 8 general elections. The PTI chairman’s statement rejecting alliances may open the door to potential horse-trading, raising concerns among analysts.
As per Section 91(2) of the Constitution, the president must summon the National Assembly’s session within 21 days of the official announcement of election results. Failure to do so empowers the National Assembly Secretariat to announce the session. The NAS has already made preparations for the new assembly’s inaugural session.
The Elections Act 2017, amended in 2023, requires the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to announce consolidated election results within 14 days. Following this, independent MNAs have three days to join a party, with women members joining on the fourth day.
The schedule for the National Assembly session includes the administration of the oath to new MNAs on the first day, the election of the new speaker and deputy speaker on the second day, and the prime minister’s election on the third day.
Over 150 sought-after positions, including the presidency, prime ministership, and various ministerial and advisory roles, are up for grabs. President Alvi congratulated the Pakistani people for their active participation in the 2024 elections in a Sunday message.
Additionally, the term of half the Senate members will end next month, leading to elections for approximately 50 vacant seats and the selection of the Senate’s chairperson and deputy chairperson, offering further opportunities for political maneuvering and alliances.
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