ECP removes MQM-P chief’s name from list of registered political parties

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has removed the name of Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) chief from its updated list of registered political parties after the party failed to conduct intra-party elections within the stipulated timeframe.

The commission had directed MQM-P to hold its intra-party elections by October. However, following the expiry of the deadline without the required electoral exercise, the ECP issued a show-cause notice to the party over its non-compliance.

Subsequently, the name of the MQM-P chief was omitted from the commission's updated list of registered political parties.

Former federal law minister Farogh Naseem has submitted the party's response to the ECP in connection with the show-cause notice.

Under Pakistan's election laws, political parties are required to hold intra-party elections within the prescribed period and submit details of the process to the ECP.

These elections are intended to ensure that party office-bearers are elected through a formal democratic process within the organisation.

Political parties are also required to submit annual financial statements to the commission. Under Section 210 of the Elections Act 2017, every political party must submit its financial statements within 60 days of the end of the financial year.