Progress on Electoral Reforms: Consensus Reached, Final Report Expected by July 20

The Federal Minister for Law and Justice, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, announced on Tuesday that significant progress has been made by the Parliamentary Committee on Electoral Reforms. The committee, tasked with proposing crucial amendments to the Elections Act of 2017, has reached a consensus on various aspects of electoral reforms. The minister revealed that the committee’s report is expected to be finalized by July 20.

During a media briefing after the committee’s fifth in-camera meeting, Senator Tarar addressed several key points. One of the notable updates is that overseas Pakistanis will not be able to cast their votes through internet voting in the upcoming general elections. The minister emphasized that no new amendments have been proposed and that the focus has been on enhancing the transparency and efficiency of the election process.

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The committee’s primary objective is to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections by making necessary recommendations and, if required, drafting new legislation. In the latest meeting, the nomination forms were further streamlined, and the final report with changes to the Election Act of 2017 is expected to be released by Thursday.

Although specific details were not provided, it was mentioned that Fehmida Mirza from the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) offered suggestions to the committee regarding the election process. The minister confirmed that the report would be shared with the public once finalized.

Senator Tarar also highlighted the importance of effective implementation to address allegations of rigging following elections. He emphasized that a good piece of legislation can only yield results if there is faith in its implementation. He expressed confidence in the collective efforts of all political parties, the Election Commission of Pakistan, and the empowered Commission’s ability to make a positive difference.

Regarding overseas Pakistanis’ voting rights, the proposed amendments to the Elections Act of 2017 reaffirm that internet voting will not be possible. The Election Commission of Pakistan will conduct pilot projects in bye-elections to evaluate the technical efficacy, secrecy, security, and financial feasibility of such voting. The results and recommendations will be shared with the government, which will arrange discussions and appropriate legislation based on the findings.

Responding to questions about the bill’s potential return by President Dr. Arif Alvi, Senator Tarar expressed confidence that the president would not take such a step. He assured that the bill’s significance and the support it has received make it unlikely to face obstacles.

As the political landscape prepares for the transition, the parties are actively engaged in proposing around 70 amendments to the Elections Act. This concerted effort aims to shape the electoral framework in accordance with their respective agendas, ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process in Pakistan.

Stay tuned for further updates as the Parliamentary Committee on Electoral Reforms continues its work to strengthen Pakistan’s electoral system.

Source: Tribune