EC resolves administrative error in MP Ziyad's PNC registration

Elections Commission (EC) announced on Monday that the issue regarding MP Hussain Ziyad being registered with the Progressive National Congress (PNC) without his knowledge has been resolved, as it was due to an administrative error.

Ziyad's name appeared on the PNC register, with records showing he registered with the party on the 23rd of last month. Ziyad expressed concern about the lack of an alert from the EC when a sitting MP changes party affiliation.

EC member Hassan Zakariyya explained that the alert system failed to flag Ziyad's change of party due to an oversight after the parliamentary elections.

“After the elections, the names of former members were removed from the list of MPs, including second-term elected members. Ziyad's name was also removed. This was an administrative mistake,” Zakaria said.

The EC established the alert system to address instances where MPs were found to have joined other parties without their knowledge. Although not mandated by law, the system was created to address potential legal consequences, such as the dissolution of parliament or the loss of a parliamentary seat, which could arise when MPs switch parties.

“We are not required by law to maintain such a system, but we have it in place to ensure awareness of changes in party affiliation for elected representatives,” Zakariyya added.