ECP Suspension.

The ECP has suspended 271 lawmakers over asset and liability disclosure issues. This figure is quite large and comes after the filing was incomplete by the end of the year. The list also includes prominent political names from the PML: N, PPP, PTI, and MQM: P. This exercise is a regular one where asset details are sought under the Representation of People's Act and Senate Act.

The deadline was January 15 and it is unfortunate that many parliamentarians do not take the rules of the election process seriously. The situation should not have culminated in suspensions or delays in deadlines for such operations. This number is also higher this year as PTI lawmakers have resigned from the NA. Last year, the figure was 35 MNAs and this time the NA assembly number is 136. Likewise, this disclosure was not a new development as statements have to be submitted by December 31st every year.

It is also unfortunate that these legal requirements are surpassed by individuals who have been in politics for some time. With preparations for the GE underway, it is time for veteran politicians to quit these practices. Accountability and...