ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has proposed an amendment to the Election Rules, 2017, seeking powers to directly obtain clarifications from lawmakers and relevant institutions over any ambiguity in annual statements of assets and liabilities.
According to a draft notification issued by the ECP, the proposed amendment would insert a new proviso into Rule 137, authorising the Commission to seek explanations not only from members of parliament and provincial assemblies but also from any person, government department, organisation or financial institution.
Under the proposed amendment, all entities approached by the Commission would be legally bound to provide the requested clarification within the timeframe specified by the ECP.
What Powers Will the Proposed Amendment Give the ECP?
The Commission said the amendment has been proposed under Section 239 of the Elections Act, 2017, to strengthen scrutiny of lawmakers’ asset declarations.
The draft proviso states that where any ambiguity is found in the statements of assets and liabilities submitted by parliamentarians or members of provincial assemblies, the ECP may seek further clarification from the concerned member or from any relevant person, department, organisation or financial institution.
The proposed rule also makes it mandatory for such entities to respond to the Commission’s queries within the time specified by the ECP.
What Happens Next?
The ECP has published the draft amendment for public consultation and invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders.
According to the notification, comments may be submitted to the ECP Secretariat in Islamabad by August 15, 2026. The Commission will consider all objections and suggestions received within the stipulated period after providing the objectors an opportunity to be heard.
The draft amendment has also been uploaded to the ECP’s official website as part of the consultation process before any final decision is taken.