President Dr. Arif Alvi’s five-year constitutional term is set to conclude today, September 8, amid speculation that he intends to continue serving in the role. Reports suggest that President Alvi has no plans to step down and will remain in office until a new president is appointed.
This decision was reportedly made during a meeting held last week when the president agreed to stay in office until his successor is named. This development comes against the backdrop of uncertainty surrounding the next general elections in the country.
There are also indications that President Alvi may announce a date for the elections. Last month, he sent a letter to Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, requesting an urgent meeting to discuss the election date.
In his letter to the CEC, President Alvi cited the dissolution of the National Assembly on August 9, 2023, as per the Prime Minister’s advice. According to Article 48 (5) of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the President is obligated to set a date for the General Election of the Assembly within ninety days of dissolution.
Taking these circumstances into account, President Alvi invited the Chief Election Commissioner for a meeting, either today or tomorrow, to determine a suitable date.
However, the CEC declined the president’s invitation. In his response, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) chief explained that following the latest amendments to the Election Act earlier this year in June, the electoral body has the prerogative to decide on election dates independently. He clarified that the new law does not require consultation with the president for setting election dates.
