The Parliamentary Affairs Committee of the National Assembly has approved a bill aimed at amending the Elections Act 2017, specifically targeting the issue of lawmakers changing their political affiliations after elections. The bill, passed with eight members in favor and four opposed, has sparked debate among lawmakers, highlighting divisions over its implications and the underlying motivations.
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, supporting the bill, emphasized that the issues surrounding independent members joining political parties and the reservation of seats are clearly defined. The bill seeks to address concerns related to political affiliation and the handling of reserved seats, with the goal of ensuring electoral integrity and consistency in party representation.
The bill, introduced by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) lawmaker Bilal Azhar Kiyani, proposes amendments to Sections 66 and 104 of the Elections Act, 2017. Specifically, it seeks to prevent individuals who ran as independent candidates from later affiliating with a political party and altering their status post-election. This measure aims to maintain transparency and prevent potential manipulation of party affiliations for political gain.
Key Provisions of the Bill
- Independent Candidates’ Affiliation:
The bill stipulates that candidates who contest elections as independents cannot later change their affidavit to declare affiliation with a political party. The proposed amendment asserts that once an independent candidate files a notarized statement of affiliation post-election, they should not be recognized as a candidate of that party. - Reserved Seats Submission:
The bill introduces a provision that political parties failing to submit their list for reserved seats within the stipulated time will forfeit their eligibility for these seats. This amendment is intended to enforce deadlines and ensure that parties adhere to procedural requirements. - Declaration of Affiliation:
Candidates are required to submit a declaration of their party affiliation before seeking the allotment of an election symbol. If a candidate does not provide this declaration, they will be deemed an independent candidate. This provision aims to prevent confusion and ensure clear party representation in the electoral process. - Immediate Effect:
The bill stipulates that the proposed changes will come into force immediately and be considered effective from the commencement of the Elections Act, 2017. This provision ensures that the amendments are applied retroactively, affecting past and future elections.
Reactions and Controversy
The bill has elicited varied reactions from committee members and political figures. Law Minister Tarar defended the bill’s intentions, arguing that it clarifies the legal standing of independent candidates and addresses procedural delays related to reserved seats. He contended that the bill aims to fortify the electoral framework and prevent potential abuses.
However, Ali Muhammad Khan from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) criticized the bill, suggesting that as a private member’s proposal, it should not have received formal endorsement from the law minister. Khan’s comments reflect concerns that the bill may be driven by partisan interests rather than a genuine commitment to electoral reform.
Shahid Akhtar of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), who abstained from voting, highlighted the contentious nature of the bill and the divisions it has stirred among lawmakers. The absence of a unified stance underscores the complexity of electoral reforms and the challenges of balancing transparency with practical governance.
Implications and Next Steps
The approval of the bill by the Parliamentary Affairs Committee marks a significant step in electoral reforms but also signals potential challenges ahead. The proposed amendments aim to enhance the integrity of the electoral process and ensure consistency in party affiliation and seat allocation. However, the controversy surrounding the bill’s motivations and its impact on independent candidates and party dynamics could influence its reception and implementation.
As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its proponents and critics will continue to debate its merits and implications. The final outcome will depend on broader political negotiations and the extent to which the proposed changes align with the objectives of fair and transparent elections.
The bill’s approval reflects ongoing efforts to reform Pakistan’s electoral system, addressing issues of political affiliation and seat allocation while navigating the complexities of legislative and political dynamics.
