More than a year has passed since the 2024 general elections, yet a significant number of election-related disputes remain unresolved. This delay raises serious concerns about the efficiency and impartiality of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and its ability to uphold democratic integrity.
Election tribunals exist to address irregularities and misconduct in a timely manner. However, in Pakistan, electoral disputes have long been plagued by delays, procedural hurdles, and political interference. The fact that so many cases remain undecided after more than a year is a failure of the system.
The ECP blames legal complexities and a heavy caseload for the delays, but these explanations fall short. If the commission anticipated disputes, it should have taken steps to streamline the adjudication process. The longer these cases remain unresolved, the greater the damage to public confidence in the electoral system.
Moreover, such delays fuel speculation of political bias. Many believe cases are being stalled to benefit certain parties, further eroding trust in electoral institutions. Historically, election-related litigation in Pakistan has been viewed as a tool for political manipulation rather than a means to uphold democracy.
The current situation also exposes institutional weaknesses. If the ECP struggles to resolve disputes efficiently, how can it ensure free and fair elections in the future? A functioning democracy depends on swift and transparent electoral dispute resolution.
To restore credibility, the ECP must act urgently. Clearing the backlog requires better resource allocation, simplified procedures, and a stronger commitment to transparency. Political parties must also push for electoral reforms to prevent such delays in future elections.
Democracy is not just about casting votes—it is about ensuring that every vote counts and every dispute is settled fairly. The failure to resolve election cases in time is not just mismanagement; it is an attack on democratic principles. Pakistan cannot afford further excuses. The system must be fixed before the next election cycle begins.
