The Supreme Court has ordered the Election Commission of Pakistan to prepare voters lists by February 23, 2012, no more excuses or extension requests will be entertained.
During the proceedings, it was enquired by the court that if the polls are held in March 2012, would they be held on per-existing voter lists which have been challenged by several political leaders. No one shall question the necessity for verification and updating of existing voter lists to remove bogus votes. But from where this March 2012 deadline has come? I understand Senate elections will be held in March, but that has nothing to do with general elections for which updated voter lists are required.
Is this the month of March which is being forecasted for last three years? Theoretically speaking, general elections are due to be held by March 2013. But you know intoxication of success of a previously held million march can eat a whole year, no issue. Is the cat now out of the bag?
MASOOD KHAN
Jubail, Saudi Arab
