Bill to extend term of House of Representatives draws EC's attention

The Election Commission (EC) Monday said its attention has been drawn toward a bill tabled by the government in the parliament to extend the term of the House of Representatives beyond November 20.

Issuing a statement, the EC said as the constitution states that the Speaker and Deputy Speaker shall continue in office until the date of the filing of nominations for election to the House of Representatives, it won't be appropriate to extend the term beyond the date of filing nomination.

Article 91 Clause (6) of the constitution states that the office of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker shall be vacant if s/he cases to be a member of the House of Representatives: Provided that, after the dissolution of the House of Representatives, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker shall continue in office until the date of the filing of nominations for election to the House of Representatives.