EC's welcome retraction
Step in the right direction
It was never clear as to why the Election Commission (EC) declared the self-imposed curtailment of its authority by amending Article 91E of the RPO. It would have seen the body lose its authority to revoke a candidacy in the general elections. What is clear is that the furor it created amongst political parties and the backlash from various quarters was too much for the EC to stomach. The body has now come full circle and abandoned the planned amendment.
We wholeheartedly welcome the move. Regardless of the confusion created over its misstep of self-diminution the powers that allow for EC to cancel a candidacy is crucial in preventing violations of electoral laws and is seen as a crucial tool for overall empowerment of the EC. Though Article 91E has a checkered past of having been included and made void during successive governments, its potential efficacy cannot be understated. It facilitates strict observance of election laws by candidates and its application discourages prospective candidates from blocking roads for rallies, using walls for graffiti and posters et al.
A strong and independent EC can help present the nation with a free and credible general election. Any attempt to clip its wings and render it virtually powerless will only go against its given mandate.
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