Federal government’s new move to delay elections in Punjab and KP
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ISLAMABAD: The federal government has refused to provide additional funds to Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for holding by-elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) citing the country’s economic situation.
According to details, the Ministry of Finance has apprised the electoral watchdog of its decision, saying that the latter should withdraw the demand for additional funds in the interest of the country.
In the statement, the finance ministry said the country was facing a severe economic crisis, adding that funds were also required for flood recovery and rehabilitation.
“The country has to complete terms and conditions of International Monetary Fund (IMF),” it said, adding that additional funds will only be provided if the situation improves.
The Punjab and KP assemblies were dissolved on Jan 18 and Jan 14, respectively, after former prime minister Imran Khan had announced to dissolve assemblies in an attempt to force the government to hold snap polls.
As per the Constitution of Pakistan, polls need to be held for the dissolved assemblies in 90 days.
It is pertinent to mention here that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had asked for additional funds of Rs14 billion for the Punjab and KP by-elections.
