In a recent development, President Dr Arif Alvi on Wednesday conveyed the concerns of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to the Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar regarding the erosion of fundamental rights and the importance of ensuring a level playing field for all political parties.
In a letter, President Alvi's letter to the caretaker premier, he commended Mr Kakar for his recent statements, expressing the caretaker government's commitment to ensuring a fair and level electoral playing field.
Call for neutral and fair electoral environment
In addition to PTI's concerns, President Alvi forwarded a letter from PTI's General Secretary Mr Omar Ayub Khan, to the Prime Minister, outlining specific issues of worry within the political landscape.
The president also stressed that democracy remains the only viable path for Pakistan's progress, as it allows people to participate in political activities and voice their opinions through a free and fair media.
He emphasised the resonance within Pakistan that all political parties and leaders should have the right to contest elections, leaving the ultimate decision in the hands of the people.
Fundamental rights at risk
Moreover, the President noted that Mr Omar Ayub Khan had conveyed PTI's concerns about the erosion of fundamental rights.
These concerns encompassed issues such as enforced disappearances, forced conversions of political loyalties, the absence of a level playing field for major political parties, a crackdown on media, and the mistreatment of female political activists through prolonged illegal detentions.
The constitutional imperative
President Alvi pointed out that as the Head of State under Article 41 of the Constitution of Pakistan, he, along with the Prime Minister and all institutions, had a duty to protect the rights of citizens as enshrined in the Constitution.
He highlighted that the increasing cases of enforced disappearances, particularly of individuals with known political affiliations, became a matter of concern when they resulted in the conversion of political associations or loyalties.
The issue also became sensitive when female political workers were subjected to prolonged detentions or frequent rearrests after receiving court relief.
The President cited the Constitution of Pakistan, particularly Article 4, which affirms the inalienable right of every citizen to be treated in accordance with the law. He also referred to Article 17, which guarantees every citizen the right to form associations and be a member of a political party. Furthermore, Article 19 of the Constitution states that every citizen shall have the right to freedom of speech and expression, including freedom of the press.
