And PTI’s demands
The nearer the Judicial Commission’s decision draws, the more confusing its business is becoming. Imran finds the national assembly illegitimate again, or something of the sort, and has apparently distanced himself from it till the Commission’s verdict comes out. Interestingly, the decision is not binding on other party members this time – perhaps some lessons have been learnt. But there is clear signaling from those that continue to attend – the political compromise was not an automatic admission of legitimacy. The backdrop explains the commotion to an extent.
PTI now wants to incorporate a profound change in the mechanics of the Commission. The matter of missing form-15s and conformation of extra ballot papers clearly plays into the party’ hands, and it has obviously decided to press for whatever advantage that can be had. Hence counsel Pirzada’s letter demanding turning the Judicial Commission into an Investigation Commission and changing the angle of the investigation process by involving Returning Officers (ROs). Nadra, too, should be investigated to know if pre scan reports confirm what is now known for a fact – missing form 15s.
But remember the Commission’s mandate was to investigate charges of systematic, deliberate rigging in the ’13 poll. And so far there is the feeling that PTI has not been big on producing the kind of evidence regarding election fraud that it liked to claim. There is, now, also the increasing feeling that, contrary to recent provinces, the party might not be too impressed if the Commission does not decide in its favour. The confusion about the assembly, too, is ill-timed. Considering the effort it took to get to the Commission – which PTI must be credited for – perhaps it would be best if the party understood the importance of letting it reach a fair conclusion now. Sudden, repeated demands that interfere with the mandate of the Commission only give weight to slogans of ‘U-turn’, etc. All parties concerned must let the Commission come to a conclusion, and then accept it as promised.