The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has recently pressed the government to provide a level playing field to all political parties, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), as the electioneering ahead of the February 8 polls faces gags. According to Co-Chair HRCP, instead of spoiling the election atmosphere, concerned departments must work to organize a free and fair election and all parties should be given ample time and equal opportunities to campaign for the next polls.
There is much noise and a heightened debate in the media and scholarly circles on the issue of a level playing field and alleged discrimination in dealing with certain political groups by the state institutions in respect of election campaigns, submission of candidates’ papers and alleged arrest and harassment of PTI candidates ahead of a crucial general election scheduled to be held on February 8. Interestingly, several civic groups including the PPP, the MQM Pakistan, the PML-N, the Awami National Party and Sheikh Rashad’s one-man party, the Muslim League Awami accused the ECP and the interim government of biased conduct and discrimination in dealing with them and demanded a level of playing during upcoming polls.
Although, the complaint from the Pakistan Tahreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is somehow justified because the party remained in a clash with the previous government and military establishment over the past almost one year and a half. Scores of PTI workers have been arrested in the aftermath of the May 9 riots and many are still behind bars while others escaped backlash after announcing disassociation from the party. Although, rioters and gangsters have no place in the political process yet the law abiders and peaceful political workers must be given a chance and equal opportunity to represent their party by participating in the election to give validity to the electoral process. Pakistan has passed through months-long political unrest and the sole recipe to end political antagonism is credible elections that need to be free, fair, and transparent to ensure that Pakistan moves in the direction of democratic progress, political stability and economic revival.
Previously, the PTI has complained to the Electoral watchdog and the Apex court of not availing a level playing field, whereas the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has now taken up the case while saying that the state’s response to PTI is disproportionate and unlawful. According to the HRCP, party workers and supporters are being cracked down, leaders are being pressurized in a familiar pattern, and a large-scale rejection of candidates’ nomination papers further cast doubt over the electoral process that has now begun in the country.
Historically, a level playing field in the electoral process is crucial for ensuring fairness, transparency, and the integrity of democratic elections. Hence, the provision of an equal opportunity to all political parties and candidates to compete for votes, regardless of their resources, political affiliation or influence is of utmost importance. It sets a healthy electoral environment and promotes a more inclusive and representative democracy, along with building voters’ confidence in the democratic institutions, electoral system, and election regulator in the country. Anyhow, impartiality and provision of a level playing field for all stakeholders become more essential in the modern age, where nothing can be hidden from the eyes of media, rights advocates and common citizens as well. It is the primary responsibility of the ECP and the caretaker government to ensure a level playing field, equal treatment and opportunities for all political parties and candidates to conduct free, fair and transparent polls, so the turmoil-hit nation moves toward stability and equanimity.
