President Dr Arif Alvi said Wednesday that he does not see general elections taking place in January, but stressed the need for transparent polls whenever they are staged.
Political analysts have also raised concerns about a possible delay in the polls past January, with several noting that no political party seems in the "election mode", while others mentioned that politicos have also cautioned about the "harsh weather" during winters that could hamper the polling process.
During an interview with Geo News' Hamid Mir, President Alvi said: "I don't believe the elections [will take place in the last week of January]. I think that the supreme judiciary has taken notice of it and it will issue an apt order."
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announced last month that it would hold polls in the last week of January 2024, but did not give an exact date — prompting fears of another delay.
The general elections were supposed to be held within 90 days after the dissolution of the National Assembly in August. However, they were delayed after a fresh census was approved, warranting new delimitations.
Alvi, during the interview, also called for free and fair elections, saying that it is crucial for Pakistan's development. "...everyone is also calling for a level-playing field."
Ahead of the sought-after elections, he said that there is a need for the nation to become one. "Spirit of forgiveness builds nations," he added.
More to follow...
