The Standing Committee on Parliamentary Affairs has passed the Election Act Amendment Bill 2024 by a majority vote, despite significant opposition and absence of key parties. Chairman Rana Aradat Sharif led the National Assembly Standing Committee's session, where the bill to amend the Elections Act 2017 was reviewed. Bilal Azhar Kayani provided a briefing on the proposed amendments. Tensions flared during the meeting as opposition member Ali Muhammad Khan clashed with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Azam Nazir Tarar over the bill. Tarar defended the bill, asserting that the amendments are in line with constitutional and legal standards. In contrast, PTI members voiced strong opposition, with Shahida Akhtar Ali emphasizing the need for thorough examination and suggesting that the amendments could be detrimental.

JUI’s Shahida Akhtar Ali also criticized the process, arguing that the bill requires more detailed scrutiny and re-evaluation. The Election Commission’s Secretary stated that the Commission could not comment on the bill’s effects, as this falls outside their purview. Khan further criticized the Election Commission, alleging misconduct and undue influence on political parties. Ultimately, the committee approved the Election Act Amendment Bill 2024 with six votes in favor and four against. Notably, JUI’s Shahida Akhtar Ali abstained from voting, citing uncertainty about the bill’s restorative effects, and no PPP members attended the meeting. The bill is now set to be presented to the National Assembly for final approval on Friday.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan