ECP proposes new powers to verify lawmakers’ ass…
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has proposed amendments to the Election Rules, 2017, aiming to strengthen scrutiny of lawmakers’ annual declarations of assets and liabilities by allowing the commission to seek information directly from relevant institutions.
According to a notification issued by the ECP, the proposed amendment would add a new provision to Rule 137 of the Election Rules. Under the proposed change, the commission would be empowered to seek clarification whenever it finds ambiguity or inconsistency in the asset and liability statements submitted by members of the National Assembly, Senate and provincial assemblies.
The proposal would also authorize the ECP to obtain information not only from the concerned lawmaker but also from any individual, government department, organisation or financial institution that may possess relevant records.
If approved, all entities approached by the commission would be legally required to provide the requested clarification or information within the timeframe specified by the ECP.
The electoral body said the amendment has been proposed under the powers granted to it by Section 239 of the Elections Act, 2017. The draft amendment has been published to invite public feedback before it is finalised.
Citizens and stakeholders have been invited to submit objections or suggestions regarding the proposed amendment to the ECP Secretariat in Islamabad by August 15, 2026. The commission said it will review all submissions and provide an opportunity for hearing before making a final decision.
The draft amendment has also been uploaded to the ECP’s official website to ensure transparency and allow public participation in the legislative process.