Last Updated on September 11, 2026 by YeJahan
YEJAHAN DESK
ISLAMABAD (Sept 11): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken an initiative towards initiating dialogue between his government and opposition by inviting National Assembly Opposition Leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai for mandatory consultations on the appointment of a new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC).
The prime minister extended the invitation on Thurdsay, days before PTI-led long march to Islamabad. However, the opposition leader hasn’t responded yet.
Interestingly, Prime Minister’s office has stressed that political harmony and stability are essential in Pakistan as well. This is why they have invited Achakzai for consultations on CEC appointment. On the other hand, PTI kept mum about this matter. When contacted by a senior party member, he was reluctant to comment further.
The five-year term of incumbent Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja expired on January 26th, 2025. Critics accused him of denying PTI’s symbol (bat) in the 2024 elections and depriving them from reserved seats due to his support for PML-N-led government.
Section 2A of Article 213 says that “The Prime Minister shall forward three names for appointment of Chief Election Commissioner, based on their strength in Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), to be considered by a Parliamentary Committee.” Section 2B states: “Provided further that the total membership of this committee should consist of members from both Treasury Benches and Opposition Parties.”
Earlier in August, Achakzai urged Prime Minister to appoint new Chief Election Commissioner along with two representatives for Sindh and Balochistan. The incumbent CEC Raja has been serving since January 26th, 2025 under the proviso inserted into Article 215(4) of Constitution allowing him until March 12th, 2025 to be appointed by successors.
