ISLAMABAD: PPP leader Sharmila Faruqui emphasized that the credibility of the 2024 elections hinged upon the participation of all parties, including PTI, asserting the need for fair competition to ensure a robust electoral process.
Speaking with Aaj TV, Faruqui stressed the importance of every political entity engaging in the upcoming elections.
She urged for the legal challenge of PTI founder Imran Khan’s disqualification, highlighting the necessity of a competitive electoral landscape.
Faruqui expressed concern over the lack of a vibrant political atmosphere, noting the absence of rallies, conventions, or active campaigning by parties aside from PPP. She specifically advocated for PTI’s active involvement in the electoral process.
Taking a veiled swipe at former ally PML-N, Faruqui hinted at expectations for a public gathering at Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi following their coalition with MQM-P.
Legal expert Abid Zuberi weighed in, stating that the Election Commission of Pakistan’s ruling on PTI’s intra-party election would impact subsequent elections under the Election Act.
He clarified that as the ECP’s decision came after the election schedule announcement, it would be applicable in future elections, subject to court validation.
Zuberi highlighted the significance of the ECP’s decision to revoke PTI’s bat symbol post-schedule announcement, suggesting its potential impact on voters who often associate with party symbols.
Regarding objections raised against Nawaz Sharif’s nomination papers, Zuberi advocated for allowing qualified individuals to contest elections.
He proposed a reconsideration of lifetime disqualification for political leaders, suggesting a fixed period of punishment aligning with legislative guidelines on disqualification.
I am an experienced writer, analyst, and author. My exposure in English journalism spans more than 28 years. In the past, I have been working with daily The Muslim (Lahore Bureau), daily Business Recorder (Lahore/Islamabad Bureaus), Daily Times, Islamabad, daily The Nation (Lahore and Karachi). With daily The Nation, I have served as Resident Editor, Karachi. Since 2009, I have been working as a Freelance Writer/Editor for American organizations.
