Pak democracy will not be allowed to be hijacked by 'lotacracy': Babar Awan

Lahore, Feb 27(ANI): The practice of 'lotacracy' is back and in full swing in Pakistan's Punjab province after a very long time, Federal Law Minister Babar Awan has said.

But "democracy will not be allowed to be hijacked by horse-trading," the Daily Times quoted Pakistan People's Party (PPP) leader Awan, as saying.

He reacted aggressively at the PML-N's decision to oust the PPP from the Punjab government, and accused the PML-N of indulging in the 'politics of Changa Manga,' a reference to the politics of the 90s during which some parties encouraged the policy of winning over their opponents' loyalties through lucrative offers.

Awan said there were provisions in the Constitution under which 'lotacracy' could be checked.

"In case a party tries to make use of turncoats, it will automatically be exposed," Geo News quoted him, as saying.

No one should try to become a 'godfather' of democracy in Pakistan because the sacrifices rendered by the PPP for the survival of democracy are visible to all, Awan added.

He said the culture of reconciliation would be saved at all costs, adding: 'We will play a very active role as opposition in the Punjab.'

Awan also rejected the possibility of a mid-term or a short-term election, saying that the government would complete its constitutional term.

"Turncoats and defectors have no legal standing according to the Article 63 of the constitution...nor can they vote," he added. (ANI)