Editorial
Elections are around the corner. Pakistan is an Islamic Federal Republic constitutionally. Then, it is politically governed by a parliamentary form of governance. Being a Federal Republic, it is the will of the people to elect the governments as per the constitution of Pakistan. Thus, elections are conducted after five years as per the scheme of the constitution. Further, free and fair elections are guaranteed in the constitution of Pakistan. Therefore, it is the political, constitutional and legal right of a political party to contest elections and come into power to represent the will of the people and implement the manifesto accordingly.
PTI has been in hot waters since being ousted through a vote of no confidence. However, it is critical to provide a level playing field to PTI for holding the general elections in 2024 for the cause of democracy, electioneering and political stability. A level playing field means that all political parties and candidates have equal opportunities to participate in the electoral process and compete for votes. This is essential for ensuring the fairness, transparency, and credibility of the elections, which are the pillars of democracy. A level playing field also means that the caretaker governments and the election commission are impartial and independent and do not favour or discriminate against any party or candidate. This is important for maintaining the trust and confidence of the voters and the political actors in the electoral system and its outcomes.
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Furthermore, a level playing field further means that the media, civil society, and other stakeholders are free and responsible and play a constructive role in informing, educating, and mobilizing the public on electoral issues. This is vital for enhancing the quality and diversity of political discourse and representation in the country. Providing a level playing field to PTI is especially critical because it is the largest political party in the country and has been facing various challenges and hurdles. PTI claims that it has been subjected to false cases, restrictions on political activities, arrests of its workers, and harassment by governmental institutions. PTI also alleges that the previous government manipulated the census results and delayed the elections to gain an unfair advantage.
Providing a level playing field to PTI would enable it to run its election campaign freely and effectively and present its vision and agenda to the people. It would also allow it to challenge the performance and policies of the previous government and offer alternative solutions to the country’s problems. This would enrich the country’s political debate and competition, giving the voters more choices and voices.
Providing a level playing field to PTI would also contribute to political stability and harmony in the country, reducing the chances of conflict and violence before, during, and after the elections. It would also increase the likelihood of a peaceful power transfer and foster a culture of tolerance and cooperation among different political forces. This would strengthen the democratic system and institutions in the country and bring the desired political stability critical for promoting its development and prosperity.
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