ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Law and Justice has conveyed to President Arif Alvi that the responsibility for announcing the election date rests with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). According to sources, the law ministry informed that the ECP will determine the election date.
In response to the president’s request for guidance following his disagreement with the ECP, the ministry shared this viewpoint. Sources indicate that the ministry, while not disclosing the complete details of the response to the public, noted that amendments to the Election Act have designated the ECP as the relevant authority for making determinations regarding all aspects of elections.
President Alvi had extended an invitation to the Chief Election Commissioner for a meeting to deliberate on setting the election date. However, the commissioner responded by stating that under the new election laws, the determination of the date solely falls under the purview of the ECP.
President Alvi’s Call For Salary Increase Amid Economic Crisis
In another development, President Dr. Arif Alvi has formally requested a salary increase, as indicated by official documents. The president has applied for two raises, the first to be effective from July 1, 2021, and the second from July 1, 2023.
Earlier this month, the President’s Secretariat dispatched a letter through his Military Secretary to the Secretary Cabinet. This letter formally requested an adjustment in the Fourth Schedule of the President’s Salary Allowances and Privileges (Amendment) Act, 2018.
The intended amendment focuses on elevating the president’s monthly salary. The plan is to increase it to Rs1,024,325 per month, starting from July 1, 2021. Subsequently, there will be a rise to Rs1,229,190 per month, taking effect from July 1, 2023. Presently, the president receives a monthly salary of Rs846,550.
