The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued pre-admission notices to the federal government, prime minister, and president over the delay in appointing the chief election commissioner (CEC) and two Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) members.
The notices were issued following a petition filed by Opposition Leaders Omar Ayub and Shibli Faraz, challenging the delay in filling the crucial positions.
The case was heard by Justice Muhammad Azam Khan, who also directed notices to the CEC and ECP members.
Petitioners’ lawyer Sameer Khosa argued that the CEC and ECP members continue to serve despite the expiration of their terms, which he claimed violates constitutional provisions.
The court inquired whether the appointment process had begun, to which Khosa responded that the parliamentary committee responsible for the process has yet to be formed.
The court has sought a response from all concerned parties and adjourned the hearing until April 29. The delay in appointing electoral officials has raised concerns about the functioning of the ECP, particularly in the lead-up to future elections.
