The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday dismissed the prime minister’s remarks that ‘aliens’ will conduct the upcoming elections, saying that such remarks are against the spirit of the constitution and the mandate of the commission.
In a statement, the ECP said it is completely ready to hold the 2018 general elections and is entirely independent when it comes to its legal and constitutional responsibilities. An ECP spokesperson cautioned those holding high offices to refrain from making statements which are based on speculation and hearsay.
On Thursday, as per media reports, Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi had said that ‘aliens’ will hold the next elections but even then the ruling party will take part in them. He had reportedly made the remarks while interacting with journalists during a dinner hosted by National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq.
Published in Daily Times, May 5th 2018.
