ISLAMABAD: The Aurat Foundation has urged the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to ensure that all political parties listed with the Commission allocate five per cent (5pc) tickets to women candidates for general seats in each of the four provincial assemblies and national assemblies as per Article 206 of the Elections Act 2017.

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

In a statement released by the Foundation on Tuesday, it was stated that it was a legal and constitutional requirement to safeguard the participation of women in electoral and political processes.

“If not fulfilled, parties cannot contest elections.”

The statement while appreciating proactive measures taken by the ECP for protecting women’s rights, stated that the Aurat Foundation expects that the ECP will make sure the allocation of five percent of 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 in the Majlis-i-Shoora (Parliament) and Provincial Assemblies, through a transparent and democratic procedure, and while making the selection of candidates for general seats shall ensure at least five per cent representation of women candidates.”

Published in Dawn, January 17th, 2024