In Islamabad, Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) President Maulana Fazlur Rehman has voiced his criticism of President Dr. Arif Alvi for proposing a date for the general elections. Fazlur Rehman argued that President Alvi, in making this suggestion, is acting on behalf of a political party, rather than the state.
In a statement, the PDM president emphasized that the responsibility for announcing the general election date falls under the jurisdiction of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), not the President's. He went on to express doubts about the President's intentions, suggesting that even if the President does possess the authority, it appears to be driven by ulterior motives. Fazlur Rehman pointed out that President Alvi's actions may disrupt the country's constitutional system, asserting that the Election Commission is not obligated to follow the President's suggestion or directive.
He also questioned which forces might be supporting the President in seeking political instability. This controversy stems from President Arif Alvi's proposal to set November 6, 2023, as the date for the general elections in Pakistan, based on his interpretation of the Constitution.
This debate has raised questions about whether the President or the ECP holds the right to announce the election date, with the ECP asserting its autonomy in this matter.