Election Schedule
ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is set to unveil the election schedule on December 17, with nomination papers expected to be submitted on the following day. The electoral process, encompassing balloting for provincial and national assemblies, is anticipated to span 54 days, culminating in elections on February 8, 2024.
In accordance with Article 220 of the Constitution, both federal and provincial governments are obligated to support the ECP in the execution of its functions. The article states: “It shall be the duty of all executive authorities in the Federation and in the provinces to assist the Commissioner and the Election Commission in the discharge of his or their functions.”
Preparations for the polls have been accelerated by the election body. The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) has increased engagements and established a hotline for communication across commission offices. Training sessions for district returning officers and returning officers commenced on December 13 and are scheduled to continue until December 16.
The training aims to equip officers with the necessary skills and familiarize them with the sophisticated communication systems implemented for election duties. A total of 142 district returning officers and 859 returning officers will receive training through 40 scheduled sessions.
The ECP has imposed a ban on the transfers and postings of deputy commissioners nationwide, with the Establishment Division duly informed. The ECP emphasizes its readiness to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections, leaving no room for doubt regarding adherence to the announced date.
Furthermore, the ECP has directed members of parliament and provincial assemblies in Sindh and Balochistan to submit yearly statements of assets and liabilities, including those of spouses and dependent children, by December 31, 2023. This submission is a mandatory requirement under Section 137 of the Elections Act, 2017. The prescribed Form-B and related instructions can be obtained from ECP offices and websites.
As the electoral process unfolds, ensuring procedural transparency, adherence to constitutional obligations, and the submission of required documentation are crucial elements for the credibility and fairness of the upcoming elections.
