In a recent session chaired by Senator Mohammad Humayun Mohmand, the Senate’s Standing Committee on Parliamentary Affairs sought detailed information on the internal expenses of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), including salaries, travel expenses, and overall expenditures related to the February 8 nationwide polls. However, the ECP excused itself from providing the requested details, stating that the Senate committee was overstepping its jurisdiction.
ECP Secretary Omar Hamid Khan, in a letter addressed to the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, asserted that the commission is an independent constitutional body, unlike other ministries and public bodies, and is not obligated to share its financial details with the Senate body. The letter emphasized that the ECP’s expenditures are charged against the Federal Consolidated Fund and are not subject to approval by the National Assembly, as outlined in Article 82(1) of the Constitution.
Despite the ECP’s refusal, Senator Mohmand expressed his discontent, arguing that the commission, which was established by parliament, should be answerable to it. He further stated that the Senate committee has the authority to summon any individual, including the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other ECP officials, to review documents and records as part of its oversight role.
The ECP did, however, express its willingness to assist the Senate committee in matters related to legislative business concerning election laws and constitutional provisions, within the scope of its defined role.
