 |
| ECP should conduct delimitations transparently: CJP |
ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial emphasized on Tuesday that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) must carry out the delimitation of constituencies with transparency.
CJP Bandial's remarks came during his leadership of a two-member bench that was addressing petitions regarding the delimitation of provincial constituencies PS 7, 8, and 9 Shikarpur, which had been contested in the Supreme Court back in 2018.
While presiding over the hearing, CJP Bandial underlined that constituency delimitations were of paramount public interest and had been discussed several times in the apex court.
"The Election Commission should ensure a transparent delimitation process," stated the Chief Justice, emphasizing that even a minor alteration by the 'tapedar' could significantly impact a candidate's vote count.
Furthermore, CJP Bandial inquired about the schedule for the upcoming general elections. In response, Director General (Law) Muhammad Arshad appeared uncertain.
"To date, no election date has been finalized. The Election Commission should resolve all matters before the polls," remarked the CJP.
He also noted that the matter was particularly sensitive in Sindh, where complaints often arose regarding incorrect delimitations in the province.
After hearing the arguments, the Supreme Court referred the issue back to the electoral body.
