MCQ Detailed View

The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of Pakistan holds office for a constitutionally fixed period, ensuring independence from political influence and stability in the electoral process. The provision governing this tenure is found in Article 215 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan 1973.

What Article 215 States: According to Article 215(1), the Chief Election Commissioner and members of the Election Commission hold office for a term of five years from the day they assume their responsibilities. This article also outlines the protections for the CEC’s position, including the removal process, which is the same as that for a judge of the Supreme Court under Article 209.

Purpose of the Five-Year Term: The fixed term is designed to give the CEC enough time to oversee at least one full general election cycle and any by-elections or local government polls during that period. It promotes continuity, long-term planning, and the implementation of electoral reforms without the fear of premature removal.

Security of Tenure: Article 215(2) ensures that the CEC cannot be removed at will by the government. Instead, removal is possible only through the Supreme Judicial Council, which prevents political manipulation and strengthens the neutrality of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).

Key Points about Article 215:

• Specifies a fixed five-year term for the CEC and members of the ECP.


• Links removal procedure to that of Supreme Court judges (Article 209).


• Prevents extensions or reappointments, reinforcing independence.


• Ensures the electoral body functions without undue political pressure.

Why It Matters: The five-year term under Article 215 provides stability in Pakistan’s electoral system. By defining clear constitutional protections, it enables the CEC to focus on conducting free, fair, and transparent elections, upholding democratic principles, and ensuring public trust in the electoral process.