In view of the recent consultative meetings organized by Pirdat and UNDP, it is time for Pakistan’s political landscape to adopt a much-needed reform of limiting the number of seats that electoral candidates can contest.
Although this practice is not new, it has sparked controversy recently, especially after PTI chief Imran Khan decided to contest in eight constituencies in last year’s by-elections. We regret that the private bill submitted by Jamaat-e-Islami Plurinational State last year to limit the number of candidates of more than two seats was not taken seriously.
Lack of progress on this front results in unfair electoral advantages and financial burdens on the state. Democracies around the world have approached this problem with pragmatic solutions. For example, India allows up to two simultaneous candidates, while Bangladesh allows up to three simultaneous candidates. The UK currently has a complete ban on contesting multiple seats. These measures not only ensure fiscal health, but also maintain the fairness of the electoral process. In Pakistan, the economic impact of this practice is significant. The ECP has estimated the cost of holding by-elections in constituencies where candidates are absent to be Rs 20.7 million. These costs, borne by taxpayers, are difficult to justify, especially in countries facing economic challenges.
