President Dr Arif Alvi completes his term this weekend, but the constitution unambiguously allows him to continue till the election of his successor, no matter how long it will take.
On different legal and constitutional matters, the political and legal minds of the country have recently differed, triggering severe controversies—the question of DDr.Alvi’s continuation beyond his term in the present situation is a settled issue. Nothing in the Constitution can be interpreted in any manner to force the President to leave upon the completion of his current term.
However, on his own, if he opts to leave upon the completion of his term, the constitution provides for his replacement. So far, the President has not made his intentions public whether he would go or continue. Alvi’s term is scheduled to end on September 9, as his tenure lasts for five years.
According to Article 44(1) of the Constitution, the President shall hold office for a term of five years from the day he enters upon his office, Provided that the President shall, notwithstanding the expiration of his words, continue to hold office until his successor enters upon his office.
