Election Commission Suspends Membership of Punjab Education Minister
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has suspended the memberships of 50 lawmakers from the Punjab Assembly, including Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, for failing to submit their asset declarations on time.
According to official sources, the suspended members also include Lahore-based MNAs Ghulam Habib Awan and Imtiaz Mehmood. The action was taken after these lawmakers did not meet the legal deadline set by the Election Commission.
The ECP had directed all assembly members to submit their annual asset and liability statements by January 15. These declarations are mandatory under election laws and help ensure transparency about lawmakers’ financial interests. Any failure to submit them within the given time automatically triggers disciplinary action.
As a result of non-compliance, the Election Commission has temporarily suspended the assembly memberships of the defaulting lawmakers. During the suspension period, they cannot participate in assembly sessions, vote, or perform any legislative duties.
The ECP clarified that the suspension is not permanent. Once the lawmakers submit their asset declarations and complete the required process, their memberships can be restored. However, until then, they will remain barred from exercising any rights as assembly members.
This move by the Election Commission highlights its strict stance on financial transparency and accountability. Submitting asset declarations is a key legal requirement, and the ECP has repeatedly warned lawmakers to follow the rules without delay.
The suspension of a sitting provincial education minister has also drawn public attention, raising questions about compliance and responsibility among elected representatives. Political observers believe such actions may push lawmakers to take election laws more seriously in the future.
Overall, the ECP’s decision sends a clear message that no one is above the law, and failure to follow election regulations can lead to immediate consequences, regardless of position or political status.
Also Read: https://informal.pk/kp-government-takes-steps-to-restore-student-unions/
About The Author
