Code of Conduct
ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has reached a significant milestone by finalizing the Code of Conduct for political parties in preparation for the upcoming general elections in 2024. According to sources, the ECP engaged in a collaborative process with political parties to formulate the code, incorporating their suggestions and input.
The Code of Conduct draft includes several key provisions aimed at ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process. Among these, political parties are bound not to speak against the sovereignty of Pakistan during the election campaign, and they are instructed to refrain from ridiculing the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
Additionally, the code emphasizes ethical practices, prohibiting the use of gifts, coercion, or bribery to influence candidates to withdraw. Political parties and candidates are required to ensure the safety and protection of election staff and polling agents.
The draft also underscores the commitment to gender inclusivity by mandating political parties to implement the 5% women’s quota in the general elections of 2024. To maintain a peaceful electoral environment, the code strongly discourages violence on polling day, and the display of weapons during election campaigns is completely banned.
Furthermore, aerial shootings and the use of firecrackers are prohibited during public gatherings associated with election activities.
The Code of Conduct introduces specific regulations regarding election spending. For instance, it mandates that election agents must be voters in the relevant constituency.
National Assembly candidates are allowed a campaign spending limit of up to Rs10 million, while Provincial Assembly candidates face a cap of Rs4 million. Successful candidates are required to submit detailed reports of their election expenses to Returning Officers, ensuring transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
