POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

ECP Cancels Registration of 3 Parties for Failing to Hold Intra-Party Elections

The Election Commission cancels the registration of Pakistan National Party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Nizam, and National Democratic Party for not conducting intra-party elections.
2025-01-18
ECP Cancels Registration of 3 Parties for Failing to Hold Intra-Party Elections

The Election Commission of Pakistan has canceled the registration of three political parties—Pakistan National Party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Nizam, and National Democratic Party—after they failed to hold intra-party elections. The decision underscores the importance of adhering to the Political Parties Order 2002, which mandates that all registered political parties must hold intra-party elections every four years, regardless of external circumstances.

According to a report from a national newspaper, the Election Commission acted swiftly, citing the parties’ non-compliance with the legal requirement. These parties are now disqualified from operating as registered political entities in Pakistan unless they fulfill the requirement to hold intra-party elections and reapply for registration.

Under the Political Parties Order 2002, political parties are required to conduct intra-party elections every four years to ensure democratic processes within the organizations. This order aims to promote internal democracy and accountability within political parties and is a key component of Pakistan’s electoral framework.

The Election Commission had previously suspended the membership of provincial and national assembly members for failing to submit asset declarations. This latest decision is seen as part of a broader effort by the Election Commission to ensure transparency and compliance with electoral laws.

The cancellations have drawn attention to the internal workings of political parties in Pakistan, with critics pointing out that the failure to hold elections within the parties reflects a lack of democratic practices. While this move has raised eyebrows, it also sends a clear message to political entities in the country about the importance of complying with electoral rules and regulations.