Islamabad, Constitutional authorities have clarified that the first session of Pakistan’s National Assembly is set to be convened within 21 days following the election date, marking a crucial step for the oath-taking of the newly elected members. This period aims to facilitate the seamless transition and initiation of the legislative body’s operations.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Barrister Syed Noman Bokhari, in conversation with the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), outlined the constitutional provision that grants the President the authority to schedule the inaugural session of the new National Assembly between February 22-28 for the oath-taking ceremony. Following this, the assembly will proceed to elect its Speaker and Deputy Speaker before moving on to the election of the Prime Minister.
Bokhari further explained that post the 18th constitutional amendment, the President no longer possesses the authority to call upon an individual or party to form the government. He advocated for a coalition government as the optimal solution for confronting the nation’s multifaceted challenges, including economic instability, climate change, poverty, and illiteracy.
Moreover, Bokhari emphasized the Election Commission’s obligation to publish the official election results within 14 days post-election. He advised against street protests as a means to contest election outcomes, urging aggrieved candidates to seek redress through the Election Tribunals.