ECP urged to ensure 5pc party tickets on general seats for women

Islamabad:Aurat foundation has urged the Election Commission of Pakistan to ensure that all political parties listed with the Commission allocate five percent (5%) tickets to women candidates on general seats in each of the four Provincial Assemblies and National Assembly as per the Article 206 of the Elections Act 2017.

Sharing serious concern on delay in publication of final lists of candidates (those who are granted party tickets) in national and provincial assemblies by political parties, Aurat foundation has said that the compliance of Article 206 is a legal obligation for political parties’ eligibility for allocation of electoral symbols.

In a statement released by Aurat Foundation on Tuesday said that this a legal and constitutional requirement to safeguard the participation of women in electoral and political processes.

“If not fulfilled, parties cannot contest elections. While appreciating proactive measures taken by the Election Commission of Pakistan for protecting women’s rights, Aurat Foundation expects that ECP will make sure the allocation of five percent seats as per Article 206, which states: “Selection for elective offices.—A political party shall make the selection of candidates for elective offices, including membership of the Ma­jl­is-e-S­­hoora (Parliament) and Provincial Assemblies, through a transparent and democratic procedure and while making the selection of candidates on general seats shall ensure at least five per cent representation of women candidates.”