Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader and former president Asif Zardari has dismissed the idea of holding general elections beyond October, stating that the only issue was the timing of the polls. In an interview with Geo News anchor Hamid Mir, Zardari emphasized the need for all political parties to hold a dialogue to agree on a date for the elections with a level playing field for all parties.
Asif Zardari’s views on general elections timing and political dialogue
Asif Zardari’s comments come as the ruling coalition in Pakistan faces mounting criticism over its handling of the country’s economy and its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. There have been concerns that the coalition might attempt to delay the elections beyond the scheduled October date in order to retain power.
According to Zardari, holding elections as early as possible is essential, but they should be held on the same day, with a level playing field for all parties. He cited several reasons for his insistence on same-day elections, including insurgencies in provinces and pending funds from friendly countries.
“The situation is not right. Funds from friends and loans from the IMF [International Monetary Fund] are due,” Asif Zardari said. “I am not refusing elections; my only dispute is regarding the dates. Which political force is scared of elections? My only contention is that it’s too soon.”
When asked if the elections could be pushed beyond October, he said it would be a “foolish thought.” Zardari proposed that all political parties should sit together and develop a consensus on a single date for the elections.
The former president’s remarks indicate that the PPP is keen to participate in the upcoming general elections, but only if they are held on the same day and with a level playing field for all parties. The PPP is one of Pakistan’s major political parties and has been in power several times in the past.
Asif Zardari’s comments come amidst ongoing political turmoil in Pakistan, including a recent government-judiciary tussle over the country’s Supreme Court’s decisions. When asked about this, the former president stated that law is essential, but politics is not understood by the judges.
The upcoming general elections are crucial for Pakistan’s political landscape, and it remains to be seen if all political parties will agree on a date for the polls. The country is currently grappling with several issues, including a struggling economy, ongoing insurgencies, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Zardari’s comments emphasize the need for all political parties to come together and develop a consensus on a date for the elections. Holding elections on the same day and with a level playing field for all parties is essential for ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process. The upcoming general elections are critical for Pakistan’s political landscape, and it is vital that all political parties work toward ensuring a smooth and transparent electoral process.
