The Impact of the New Elections Act Amendments on Pakistan’s Political Landscape
In a recent session, the National Assembly passed a bill to amend the Elections Act, 2017, which aims to address defects in the current law that have potential implications for the composition of the assemblies. The Amendment Act, introduced by PML-N lawmakers, is seen as a response to a recent Supreme Court verdict that could alter the political power dynamics in the country.
The amendments focus on key sections of the Elections Act, 2017, including Section 66, which now stipulates that candidates who fail to file party affiliation declarations and certificates will be considered independent. Additionally, changes to Section 104 require political parties to submit lists of candidates for reserved seats within a specified timeframe. A new provision, Section 104A, establishes irrevocable party affiliations for independent candidates who join a political party post-election.
However, the amendments have sparked controversy, with the PTI planning a constitutional challenge against the changes. Despite the government’s intentions, questions arise regarding the potential impact of the amendments on the functioning of the assemblies and the distribution of reserved seats.
As political debates unfold in the coming days, the true implications of the Amendment Act remain uncertain, leaving room for further legal and constitutional scrutiny. Will the amendments align with the Supreme Court’s verdict and reshape the political landscape as intended?