In an unprecedented action, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) rejected allegations leveled at it by a sitting Prime Minister in terse terms. Reacting to the Prime Minister’s address to the nation, the Election Commission said: “Everyone should have the acumen to accept defeat.”
Prime Minister Imran Khan in an address to the nation on Thursday, said that Election Commission failed to stop corrupt practices in the Senate election, despite being directed by the Supreme Court to do so. Prime Minister in his address had raised questions on the capability and efficiency of the Election Commission, saying that “the ECP was given the chance to fix the country’s elections, yet they have discredited and besmirched the democracy of the country.”
After an urgently called meeting, the Election Commission issued a detailed reply to the questions raised by the Prime Minister. “Every political party should accept defeat and if there is a difference then come with proof,” the ECP said in a press release. “We are saddened to hear the views of some federal ministers and the Prime Minister of Pakistan. “
“This is surprising that election was held on the same day, under the same roof, under the same electoral staff, but they accepted those results in which their senators were won and rejected those results where they had lost,” the ECP said.
“Is it not a contradiction that results from all the provinces were accepted,” the ECP asked while referring to Prime Minister’s speech. “The ECP rejects all opinion and anger.”
“Those who have an objection to our decision should opt for a legal course as we never come under pressure and we will not come under pressure,” the ECP statement read.”It is not the commission’s job to legislate,” it added.
“It is clarified that we are a constitutional and independent institution and that is our standard as well. We can not ignore the constitution and relevant laws for the pleasure of a few. In case of any objections, use the constitutional route. We should be allowed to work independently.”
