Election Commission of Pakistan gives final deadline
Shares
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has issued a reminder to parliamentarians regarding the submission of their asset statements for the financial year 2022-2023. In a statement released on Tuesday, the ECP emphasized the legal requirement for lawmakers to provide annual declarations of their assets and liabilities, as well as those of their spouses and dependents, by December 31st.
This deadline extension from September 30th to December 31st was introduced through the Elections Act of 2017, amending Section 42A of the Representation of the People's Act, 1976, and Section 25A of the Senate (Elections) Act, 1975.
Section 137 (1) of the Elections Act stipulates that every member of an Assembly and Senate is obligated to furnish the Commission with their asset and liability statements by December 31st each year. These statements should encompass the financial status of both the member and their family members as of the preceding June 30th, and they are to be submitted using Form B.
This requirement serves to ensure transparency and accountability among elected representatives, allowing the public to scrutinize their financial interests and holdings. The ECP's diligence in reminding parliamentarians of this obligation reinforces the importance of upholding the legal and ethical standards associated with public office.
The Election Commission's directive underscores the significance of transparency and accountability in Pakistan's political landscape. By extending the deadline for asset statement submission and actively reminding lawmakers of their responsibility, the ECP aims to maintain the integrity of the democratic process.
It provides an opportunity for citizens to assess the financial interests of their elected representatives, fostering a culture of openness and trust in the political sphere. This commitment to accountability is a vital component of a healthy democracy and promotes public confidence in the nation's governance
