Presidential Election Process at Balochistan Assembly
For the upcoming 14th presidential election, the Balochistan Assembly has been designated as a polling station. The Presidential Election Process in the Balochistan Assembly is very significant marking a pivotal moment in the electoral process of Pakistan. This inclusion underscores the importance of Balochistan’s representation in the President’s Electoral College, offering each member an equal say in the election proceedings.
Equal Weightage for Balochistan Assembly Votes
Unlike other provinces where votes are proportionally divided based on assembly size, the votes cast in the Balochistan Assembly maintain their full weight, ensuring parity among all provincial assemblies.
This unique feature highlights the equitable treatment of all regions in the presidential election process. For instance, if all the 371 votes of the Punjab Assembly are divided by the 65 votes of the Balochistan Assembly, then 5.71 votes of the Punjab Assembly have the status of one vote in the presidential election. Similarly, Sindh’s 2.58 and KP Assembly’s 1.9 votes are equivalent to one vote.
Legal Framework and Presiding Officer
The decision for the Presidential Election Process in the Balochistan Assembly declaring the Balochistan Assembly as a polling station aligns with Article 41, as stipulated by the Election Commission. Furthermore, the appointment of the Chief Justice of the Balochistan High Court as the presiding officer adds a layer of impartiality to the proceedings, ensuring fair conduct during the election.
Unanimous Approval and Member Composition
The resolution to designate the Provincial Assembly as a polling station was unanimously approved during a recent assembly session, underscoring the consensus among members regarding the importance of Balochistan’s participation in national electoral processes.
Temporary Vacancies and Scheduled Polling
The presidential election process in the Balochistan Assembly as a polling station is made possible by the temporary vacancy of two assembly seats, filled by Sardar Akhtar Jan Mengal and Jam Kamal Khan, who left their positions for re-polling in PB7 Ziarat Harnai and PB14, respectively.
Additionally, one member, Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani, is yet to take the oath, further reducing the total number of assembly members to 60 eligible to cast their votes in the presidential election.
Polling for the Presidential Election Process in the Balochistan Assembly is scheduled to take place on March 9, from 10 am to 4 pm, marking a crucial moment in the presidential election process. This inclusion reaffirms the commitment to inclusivity and equal representation in Pakistan’s democratic framework, ensuring that all regions contribute meaningfully to the selection of the nation’s highest office.