ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan on Tuesday postponed the by-election for a vacant Senate seat previously held by Murad Saeed, citing ongoing legal proceedings.
The electoral body suspended the by-election, which had been scheduled for April 23, and adjourned the matter until its next hearing on May 6. The decision came after arguments were presented during a hearing in Islamabad.
During the proceedings, counsel for petitioner Jalal Khan argued that Murad Saeed had not taken the oath of office. Therefore, the lawyer contended that the seat could not legally be declared vacant, urging the commission to halt the election process.
Following submissions from both parties, the Election Commission decided to pause the by-election and issued notices to all relevant stakeholders. Consequently, the matter will now be reviewed in detail at the next hearing.
The development introduces uncertainty around the Senate seat, as the legal status of the vacancy remains under question. Meanwhile, the commission’s decision underscores the importance of procedural compliance in determining electoral matters.
As the case proceeds, the outcome of the May 6 hearing will be crucial in deciding whether the by-election will move forward or remain suspended.
