Islamabad: Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Emir Sirajul Haq emphasized the imperative of a robust democracy during a press conference held in Lahore on Thursday. Haq lamented the prevailing state of democracy in the country, characterizing it as a system where decisions are predetermined before elections are conducted.
Reflecting on the recent elections, Haq highlighted the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) failure to provide adequate explanations for the delayed poll results. He pointed out that despite Shehbaz Sharif not yet assuming office as prime minister, he continues to advocate for seeking assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), underscoring the economic challenges facing the nation.
Terming the elections as fraudulent, Haq condemned the alleged rigging that marred the electoral process, echoing concerns voiced in previous elections. He asserted that the recent polls were tainted by irregularities, casting doubts on the legitimacy of the results.
In a call for collective action, Haq urged all political parties to prioritize the supremacy of the constitution and contribute to the advancement of democracy. He criticized the election results, alleging that they were not based on genuine vote counting but rather on predetermined mathematical formulas, questioning the integrity of the electoral process.
Expressing dismay over the mockery made of the electoral system and the nation’s democratic values, Haq pledged to take necessary measures to expose and address electoral malpractices. He warned that a government formed as a result of rigged elections would be ill-equipped to address the myriad challenges facing the populace.
Haq’s remarks underscore the pressing need for electoral transparency, accountability, and the preservation of democratic principles in Pakistan’s political landscape. As the nation navigates its democratic journey, the calls for fair and free elections resonate across all political spectrums, emphasizing the foundational importance of democracy in shaping the country’s future.
