What happened?
Opposition leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai sent a formal letter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif demanding that the cabinet appoint a new Chief Election Commissioner and fresh members for the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
Why does it matter?
Achakzai argues that the current composition of the ECP lacks adequate representation from Sindh and Balochistan, which could undermine public confidence in the commission’s neutrality and the fairness of future elections.
What is the current situation?
The statutory tenure of the incumbent Chief Election Commissioner is set to expire on 26 January 2025, meaning the commission will be operating without a chairperson for the remainder of the term unless a replacement is named beforehand.
What happens next?
The cabinet is expected to review the request and decide whether to appoint a new CEC and members from the two provinces before the existing term lapses, a move that could shape the balance of power and the perceived legitimacy of Pakistan’s electoral process.
