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Pakistan (Commonwealth Union)_ Preparations for the upcoming general elections in Pakistan are reaching their final stages as the country gears up for the crucial event scheduled for Thursday. District returning officers across the nation have commenced the distribution of election materials, including ballot papers, to presiding officers at polling stations. Accordingly, Provincial Election Commissioner (PEC) Punjab, Ijaz Anwar Chohan, confirmed on Tuesday that all necessary arrangements had been completed for the general elections.
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Addressing a press conference, Chohan announced the successful printing and delivery of ballot papers to all district returning officers in the province. He outlined the schedule, indicating that on February 7, returning officers would ensure the receipt of election materials, including ballot papers, by presiding officers, along with ensuring the readiness of polling stations. Chohan further detailed the comprehensive security, communication, and transportation plans devised for the elections, highlighting the deployment of police and army personnel to maintain law and order at all polling stations.
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Chohan stressed the Election Commission’s dedication to meeting its constitutional obligations, commending Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja for his initiatives aimed at improving the electoral process and ensuring the success of the 2024 general elections. Chohan also expressed gratitude for the support of the provincial caretaker government and governmental apparatus, underscoring ongoing coordination with district returning officers, commissioners, and police officials since taking office.
Additionally, Chohan emphasized the significance of regular communication, citing online meetings with key stakeholders, including the chief secretary and inspector general of police. Furthermore, the Election Commission established a coherent monitoring system, with complaints addressed promptly through telephone, WhatsApp, and email channels. Control rooms have been operational at federal, provincial, divisional, and district levels since the start of the election process, facilitating efficient management and response.
Chohan also highlighted the Election Management System (EMS), replacing RMS or RTS for the upcoming elections, providing internet-independent functionality. He outlined the deployment of monitoring officers and teams to enforce the electoral code of conduct, ensuring swift action against violations. With extensive infrastructure in place, including polling stations, booths, and staff, Chohan detailed the distribution of polling stations based on sensitivity levels, with plans for CCTV surveillance at highly sensitive polling stations.
In response to inquiries, Chohan confirmed the formation of a committee to investigate the NA-127 incident, emphasizing the commission’s independence and dedication to ensuring a level playing field for all parties. He reiterated the commission’s dedication to upholding the integrity of the electoral process and pledged strict action against any interference, ensuring peaceful general elections. As Pakistan’s political parties and independent candidates concluded their election campaigns, the Election Commission completed arrangements for nationwide polls, including establishing over 90,600 polling stations and deploying approximately 650,000 security personnel.
Further, the Election Commission issued an advisory warning against organizing rallies, public meetings, or corner meetings for canvassing votes from February 7 until polling day. Media organizations were reminded that poll surveys are prohibited until the completion of the electoral exercise, while broadcasting poll results an hour after voting concludes is allowed, provided they clarify the unofficial and inconclusive nature of the results. The ECP said, “Legal action will be taken against any person who violates the above-mentioned provision [Section 182, Elections Act 2017] of the law”.
