Pakistan Prepares for General Elections to Strengthen Democracy Islamabad, October 10: As Pakistan gears up for general elections in January, President Arif Alvi emphasized the need to end bitterness and promote cooperation and forgiveness. His goal is to ensure that all political parties and their leadership have equal opportunities to participate in the electoral process, ultimately strengthening democracy in the country. President Alvi highlighted that democracy would lose its meaning if people were unable to elect leaders of their choice.

In a meeting with Senator Muhammad Ali Khan Durrani, he reiterated the importance of free, fair, transparent, and inclusive general elections. The president emphasized that all political parties should be given equal opportunities to participate, further strengthening democracy. President Alvi's remarks come amidst uncertainties surrounding the political future of Imran Khan, the jailed chief of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. Legal battles threaten Khan's participation in the upcoming polls. However, President Alvi's vision for equal opportunities aims to ensure that all parties can truly represent the will of the people.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) recently announced that the polls would be held in the last week of January 2024, without specifying a specific date. President Alvi stressed the need for political and institutional unity, especially in the face of challenges like rising inflation. He called for the end of bitterness and the promotion of cooperation and forgiveness, asserting that the upcoming general elections provide a unique opportunity to rebuild Pakistan and foster political vibrancy.

While Imran Khan's incarceration has raised concerns about his political participation, President Alvi's call for inclusivity and equal opportunities for all parties aims to create a more robust democracy. The president recognized the importance of stakeholder unity in addressing the nation's challenges, including economic ones. Difficult decisions, he argued, should have the support and participative ownership of the people. In conclusion, President Alvi underscored the significance of providing every political party the chance to participate in the upcoming general elections. This commitment to democracy seeks to empower the people to elect leaders who embody their aspirations and build a stronger Pakistan.