MCQ Detailed View

According to Article 220 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan 1973, it is the constitutional duty of all executive authorities in the Federation and in the Provinces to assist the Chief Election Commissioner and the Election Commission in the discharge of their functions. This provision ensures that the Election Commission, which is an independent constitutional body, receives full cooperation from all levels of government, both federal and provincial, in order to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections.

Article 220 acts as a binding obligation on all public offices and authorities, meaning that no government department, ministry, or provincial body can refuse assistance to the Election Commission during the electoral process. This cooperation may involve providing administrative support, manpower, logistical arrangements, access to premises, and necessary data or records required for smooth election operations.

The main purpose of this constitutional requirement is to safeguard the autonomy of the Election Commission while ensuring it has adequate support to perform its duties effectively. Without such cooperation, the Commission’s ability to prepare accurate electoral rolls, conduct impartial polling, supervise vote counting, and address electoral disputes could be compromised.

It is also important to note that this duty is not limited to the period of general elections. The obligation applies to all electoral activities under the Constitution, including by-elections, Senate elections, and referendums. The principle behind this Article aligns with democratic values, ensuring that electoral processes are free from interference and administrative obstacles.

In summary, Article 220 is a cornerstone in Pakistan’s electoral framework. It guarantees that the Election Commission has the cooperation and assistance of all government machinery, thereby strengthening democracy, maintaining transparency, and building public trust in the election process.