The Supreme Court of Pakistan (SCP) made it clear on Friday that there is a need to provide a level playing field for all the political parties, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), for healthy competition.

In a written verdict, the SC stated that the masses’ confidence in the democratic process is maintained by holding transparent elections.

The apex court underscored the importance of transparent elections, saying that fair elections give legal status to the elected government.

“There should be a reflection of the masses’ will in its real context instead of holding forced elections in the country,” the SC said.

The apex court said: "Holding independent and transparent polls in the country is more important than the results.”

“The voters should have complete confidence in the electoral process in a bid to uphold democracy in the country,” said the SC.

According to Article 220, all the executive authorities are obliged to provide assistance to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). The electoral watchdog should ensure that all political parties get equal opportunity in the electoral process.

Earlier, it was reported that the apex court had directed the electoral watchdog to hear the PTI’s complaints against level playing field at 3pm, and redress their grievances.

The court had asked the commission to listen to all the complaints and resolve them, as the ECP officials had appeared in court on being summoned. The court had asked what the commission did about the complaints it received.

The ECP and the attorney general for Pakistan assured the court of cooperation.