The recent Senate Elections in Pakistan have once again brought to light the specter of horse-trading, casting a shadow over the integrity of the electoral process. Despite the noble ideals of democracy, the practice of buying and selling votes persists, undermining the very foundation of representative governance.
The victory of former Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani against the ruling party’s candidate, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, serves as a stark reminder of the influence of illicit deals on electoral outcomes. While the embrace shared between the contenders may have signaled sportsmanship, behind the scenes, the murky waters of horse-trading continue to muddy the electoral landscape.
Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari’s tweet, “Democracy is the best revenge,” takes on a bitter irony in the face of rampant malpractices. For Prime Minister Imran Khan, Gillani’s win represents not just a defeat but a blow to the principles of transparency and accountability that his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has long championed.
Read:Gillani vs Shaikh: Gillani turns tables, returns victorious in key Senate battle
The PTI’s stance against horse-trading, echoed by Federal Minister Fawad Chaudhry and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Shahbaz Gill, resonates now more than ever. Their calls for the Supreme Court to intervene and address this issue are not merely political posturing but a clarion call for justice and fairness in the electoral process.
The emergence of videos depicting alleged vote-buying by PTI lawmakers during previous Senate Elections serves as a sobering reminder of the extent of corruption that plagues the system. Imran Khan’s admission that 20 PTI MPs received hefty sums for selling their loyalties exposes the rot within, further reinforcing the need for urgent action.
In response, the PTI government’s efforts to seek the Supreme Court’s guidance on conducting Senate Elections through open ballot is a step in the right direction. By pushing for transparency and accountability, PTI aims to root out the systemic corruption that has plagued Pakistan’s political landscape for far too long.
The presidential ordinance presented by PTI to amend electoral laws underscores its commitment to upholding democratic values and restoring public trust in the electoral process. The proposed reforms, including traceable votes and stringent penalties for electoral misconduct, hold the promise of a more accountable and representative democracy.
Senate Elections in Pakistan have once again highlighted the urgent need to combat horse-trading and ensure free, fair, and transparent elections. While the road ahead may be fraught with challenges, the PTI’s unwavering stance against corruption serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter, more democratic future.
Also Read: Video of horse-trading during Senate 2018 elections emerges
