Islamabad, Pakistan President Arif
Alvi dissolved the National Assembly on Wednesday, 9 August, on the advice of
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, marking the end of the assembly's five-year
term. While typically a general election would follow within 90 days, this year
might see a delay. The Election Commission of Pakistan might opt for redistricting
based on recent census results, potentially pushing the elections to spring.
This development comes amidst the
legal turmoil surrounding former Prime Minister and cricket legend, Imran Khan.
Khan, who was removed from office following a no-confidence vote in April 2022,
was recently arrested after a court conviction. Despite these setbacks, Khan
remains a significant figure in Pakistani politics, having appealed his
conviction and requested a transfer to a high-profile detention facility.
Addressing his final Cabinet
meeting, Sharif highlighted the challenges faced during his tenure, including
Pakistan's severe economic downturn and the catastrophic floods of the previous
summer, which resulted in significant loss of life and economic damage.
However, under Sharif's leadership, Pakistan secured a $3 billion bailout
package from the International Monetary Fund, averting a potential debt
default.
Sharif, in his address to the
parliament, indicated the possibility of elections by mid-November. However,
the decision to possibly redraw constituencies could delay this timeline.
Following the dissolution of the parliament, a caretaker government will
oversee daily operations until the elections. While Sharif has influence over
the selection of the caretaker prime minister, he has yet to disclose his
preferred choice.
The Christian political community
remains divided over the current electoral system. Established by the late
President General Pervez Musharraf, the proportional representative system has
faced criticism from various Christian factions. Some advocate for dual voting
rights, allowing them to vote for both majority and minority candidates. In
contrast, others demand a separate electoral system, enabling the direct
election of their representatives. These concerns, however, seem to have fallen
on deaf ears, with the upcoming elections set to proceed under the existing
system
