Violating Election Rules

Whether the CEC will be able to assert himself as expected of him or not is yet to be seen but the signs so far are not very encouraging. The gentleman appears to be too lenient and smiling all the while, with the result that during the recent by-elections the contestants flouted at will the rules of the Election Commission, such as; overspending on their electioneering campaigns, providing transport to the voters, violating rules regarding polling premises’ restrictions, a few cases of polls rigging and finally the open and blatant display of fire arms and weapons by the celebrating supporters of the winning candidates.

I think a no-nonsense strict action should be taken by the CEC and declare the culprit contestants disqualified for violating the rules and lodge the FIR against the weapon wielding firers which would set an example for the future and induct the culture of respecting the law by the almighty politicians.  

No action was taken against the Gilanis of Multan for similar violations of the rules and that probably encouraged the recent contenders to follow their suite.

Mr. Justice Fakhar uddin G. Ibraheem, Sir, we have heard you enough and for how long more you would like us to keep hearing the harangue?  The nation would like to see you now implementing your orders also.  And, if you are too genteel, too docile or very old then please make way for someone else who can introduce the culture of discipline and strict obedience to the law and rules of the Election Commission by the powerful politicians.

 Col. Riaz Jafri (Retd)