ISLAMABAD: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Pakistan (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazalur Rehman stated that elections are forthcoming. He announced that the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government would leave power on August 9. He said that a caretaker government will be formed to oversee the electoral process.
Addressing the tribal jirga hosted by JUI-F, he expressed concern over terrorism incidents in various districts. He prayed for the recovery of the injured in the Bajaur tragedy. The Jirga demanded punishment for those involved in these incidents. Maulana Fazlur Rehman mentioned that the destruction of the economy and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is part of a global agenda.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman acknowledged the historical struggle and sacrifices of the JUI chief and the tribal people. He pointed out that external forces introduced conspiracies, with some people from within joining the plot, which affected their struggle. Nevertheless, he emphasized that the fight for their cause would persist.
He urged politicians to maintain unity during the election environment, as they understand the importance of national interest, constitution, and law. He further stressed that Pakistan’s and Afghanistan’s stability are interconnected and mutually beneficial.
PM heads CCI meeting to discuss 2023 census
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will head a meeting of the Council of Common Interest (CCI) today to determine the fate of the 2023 census. There is disagreement among coalition partners on this matter. The crucial CCI meeting is scheduled for 12 pm. All chief ministers and federal cabinet members will attend the meeting.
The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) has reportedly informed the federal government that it has completed all formalities for the census. It can now present the results for approval to the CCI.
If the CCI approves the census results, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) might postpone the elections by a couple of months as it will need additional time to conduct the delimitation process again. New census notification mandates ECP to hold elections based on the updated data.
The ruling coalition has agreed to dissolve the National Assembly prematurely on August 9, three days before its term ends. This decision allows the electoral body a 90-day window to conduct the polls.
