Share:The PTI government managed to achieve a crucial victory on Wednesday during the parliament’s joint session during which it succeeded in passing the Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2021, granting voting rights to overseas Pakistanis and the use of electronic voting machines. During the proceedings of the session, PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif termed electronic voting machines (EVMs) “evil and vicious machines” and accused the government of not being sincere in creating a consensus on electoral reforms. At the end of the chaotic session, it came as little surprise when it was announced that the opposition will challenge this move in the Supreme Court. Granting voting rights to overseas Pakistanis will be significant given how the PTI has a large base of supporters outside the country. Even if the ruling government is struggling with its local base due to serious economic issues, the activation of its overseas base could be consequential in the upcoming general elections.

Source: The Nation November 18, 2021 06:57 UTC