ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has announced that it would closely monitor election campaigns and electoral expenditures to effectively enforce the code of conduct for the upcoming polls. ECP will finalize the code of conduct through consultation with political parties. ECP announced that all the necessary measures would be taken to ensure the elections are conducted in a fair and safe manner.
During consultative meetings with Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) and the PML-Q, the ECP conveyed its stance. These discussions focused on the roadmap for the elections, which are likely to occur by mid-February. Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja chaired the meetings with other participants such as the ECP secretary and other senior officials.
The ECP reassured that it will complete all necessary arrangements to ensure peaceful elections. The assistance of the army, police, and other law enforcement agencies would be acquired.
Representatives from TLP included Chaudhry Rizwan, Mohammad Qasim, Ziaur Rahman, and Chaudhry Azhar. The PML-Q delegation consisted of Mohammad Tariq Hussain, Farukh Khan, Ghulam Mustafa, Rizwan Sadiq, and Hafiz Aqeel Jalil.
The PML-Q delegation supported the ECP’s decision regarding the fresh delimitation of constituencies before the elections. They stressed the necessity of a new delimitation based on the 2023 census results to ensure fairness.
TLP leaders referred to the local government elections in Islamabad, expressing concerns about the increase in the number of union councils and the potential manipulation of local government laws. They proposed empowering union councils for better governance and suggested improvements in voter list accuracy. They also emphasized the importance of timely elections according to the Constitution and called for peace and stability before the polls.
Both TLP and PML-Q expressed confidence in the ECP’s commitment to transparent elections. The chief election commissioner reaffirmed the ECP’s dedication to transparent delimitation and fair elections.
Constitutional Responsibility to Conduct Polls
Chief Election Commissioner Mr. Raja referred to Article 140-A of the Constitution which binds the Election Commission to conduct polls in accordance with laws. He acknowledged government interventions in local government polls.
Mr. Raja confirmed that the ECP would consult with political parties on the election code of conduct. He confirmed that the ECP would share the draft with the parties to seek their feedback.
Former Senate chairman and PPP leader Mian Raza Rabbani criticized individual meetings between diplomats and the chief election commissioner. He also questioned diplomats making statements on election timing and transparency.
