PML-N and PTI face each other
As the polling day draws near, the PML-N and PTI lose their calm because neither is sure of victory. Getting desperate, the PML-N has pushed some of its heavy weights into the fray. The unending reiteration of lack of confidence in ECP by Imran Khan is meant to be used as an explanation in case the PTI candidate turned out to be a loser. The last minute appeal for support made by the PTI to Jamaat-e-Islami, and an agreement to pay the price in terms of seat adjustment in Local Government elections, also betrays a lack of confidence in the party.
The bye-elections followed by the Local Government polls pose a test for the Election Commission. Preparing the code of conduct was easy, implementing it is not. There are already complaints about the two major candidates spending more than allowed under the regulations. Also that some of the posters supporting the candidates do not follow the specifications. A couple of days back the ECP warned that anyone found violating the code of conduct would be tried under the contempt law. The next day a Federal Minister addressed the election rally of the PML-N where he criticised the PTI and sought votes for the government’s candidate. When will the ECP take action to stop violations of the election rules? Any laxity shown by it will lead to more violations of the sort. A slap on the wrist may not be seen as an effective disincentive.
The Chief Election Commissioner has decided to supervise the election himself. This is fine provided it results in better compliance with the code of conduct on the part of the candidates. Laxity shown by the commission in the past is already having negative consequences. More than 450 lawmakers have withheld their asset details from the tax authorities in open defiance of the September 30 deadline even though the Representation of Peoples Act 1976 gives the commission the powers of the High Court to punish anyone violating rules for contempt of court.
