ISLAMABAD: The ex-Senate chairman’s attempt to secure an extension via rule amendment appears to have faced setbacks, as he now assumes the role of a Balochistan Assembly Member by taking the oath.
As per Article 223 of the Constitution, Mr. Sanjrani’s tenure as a senator ended on February 15, following the announcement of his victory as a Balochistan Assembly member. Despite not presiding over Senate sessions, he utilized the chairman’s chamber, engaging with various individuals and maintaining the title of Senate Chairman in official communications until recently.
The Election Commission has scheduled elections for six vacant Senate seats, resulting from the elected representatives securing positions in the national or provincial assemblies, to take place on March 14th.
Contrarily, the ECP did not announce the schedule for Mr. Sanjrani’s seemingly vacant position, citing that his term would expire on March 11th. Elections for the seats vacant on that date are scheduled for the first week of April.
Legal experts opine that Sanjrani could have maintained his position as Senate chairman while adhering to legal boundaries by not submitting his election expenses details to the ECP, a crucial requirement for notification issuance. The ensuing controversy emerged when, after losing his Senate seat, Sanjrani not only unlawfully retained his office but also attempted to secure an extension until the next chairman’s election.
Opponents devised a plan to prevent such an occurrence and disrupt any attempts by ensuring a high turnout, as well as highlighting quorum issues if the motion was to be passed amidst low attendance — a common scenario on Fridays. According to Dawn’s sources, Mr. Sanjrani lost confidence on Thursday as numerous lawmakers dissuaded him from pursuing the matter, warning that it could lead to unfavorable consequences.
Regarding the potential dysfunction of the Senate, with the deputy chairman also set to retire on March 11th, a legal expert referred to Article 267, emphasizing the role of the president in handling such situations.
The legal expert referred to Article 267(1) of the Constitution, which states, “At any time before the commencing day or before the expiration of three months from the commencing day, the President may … direct that the provisions of the Constitution shall, during such period as may be specified in the Order, have effect, subject to such adaptations, whether by way of modification, addition, or omission, as he may deem to be necessary or expedient.”
