EU Parliament Expresses Uncertainty over Sending Election Observers to Pakistan in 2023
Chief Observer Michael Gahler, the head of the Election Observation Mission (EOM) of the European Parliament, has raised doubts regarding the EU’s participation in Pakistan’s general elections scheduled for 2023. Speaking to a group of Pakistani journalists visiting Belgium at the invitation of the European External Action Service, Gahler emphasized the need for an official invitation from the government of Pakistan at least three months prior to the election date. However, as of now, no invitation has been extended.
Gahler, who has been a member of the EU Parliament since 1999 and previously led EOM missions in Pakistan for the elections held in 2008, 2013, and 2018, stated that without clear indications of the election being held this year, it would be unlikely to send an observation mission. He suggested that if the elections were to be postponed to the following year, there might be a possibility of sending an expert mission.
Highlighting the challenges faced during the 2018 elections, Gahler mentioned visa delays for EU observers and restrictions on their access to polling stations. He noted that the media faced pressures during the 2018 elections, and it was evident that certain entities openly supported Imran Khan, the Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in becoming the prime minister.
While refraining from commenting on the reasons behind the PTI chief’s conflicts with the establishment, Gahler acknowledged that Khan’s removal through a parliamentary no-confidence motion was legally carried out. He urged the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to play a neutral role and ensure the next elections are held on time in accordance with constitutional requirements. The EU parliamentarian also advocated for a fair and obstacle-free participation of PTI in the upcoming elections.
Challenges Faced in Previous Elections
During the press conference, Gahler shed light on the difficulties encountered by EU observers during the 2018 elections. Visa delays and restricted access to polling stations were among the key issues raised, reflecting the challenges faced in conducting impartial observation.
Media Influence and Support for Imran Khan
Gahler noted that the media faced pressures during the 2018 elections, with indications of support for Imran Khan’s candidacy. While he did not delve into the specifics of the relationship between Khan and the establishment, Gahler acknowledged that the PTI chairman became prime minister through a legitimate parliamentary process.
Call for Neutral Role of the Election Commission
Emphasizing the importance of a neutral Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), Gahler urged the institution to ensure a fair electoral process and timely conduct of the upcoming elections in line with constitutional requirements. He stressed the need for equal opportunities for all political parties, including PTI, without any hindrances.
Key Points
- The EU Parliament’s Election Observation Mission (EOM) expresses uncertainty over sending observers to Pakistan for the 2023 general elections.
- Chief Observer Michael Gahler emphasizes the need for an official invitation from the Pakistani government, but noinvitation has been received yet.
- Gahler highlights the challenges faced during the 2018 elections, including visa delays for EU observers and restrictions on accessing polling stations.
- The media faced pressures during the 2018 elections, with indications of support for Imran Khan’s candidacy.
- Gahler calls for a neutral role of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and urges fair participation of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in the upcoming elections.
Published in PakWeb, July 06, 2023.
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