The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has earmarked Rs 17 billion for security measures in connection with the forthcoming general election in 2024.
In a meeting convened to review security preparations for the upcoming general elections slated for February 08, 2024, key attendees included the Inspector Generals (IGs) from all four provinces. During the session, members were briefed on the security arrangements planned for polling day.
According to reliable sources, reports suggest that a total of 600,000 police officials are deemed essential to ensure a peaceful election in the country. However, there is currently a shortfall, with only 200,000 police officials available. An additional 400,000 personnel are urgently required to meet the fundamental security needs for the impending general elections.
In the backdrop of these figures, it has been disclosed that 58 percent of polling stations have been designated as sensitive areas, highlighting the critical importance of robust security measures for a smooth electoral process.
ECP Considers Supreme Court Appeal On PHC’s PTI Poll Verdict
Meanwhile, after the Peshawar High Court (PHC) temporarily revoked its decision regarding the PTI intra-party polls and reinstated the party’s electoral symbol ‘bat,’ the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is contemplating approaching the Supreme Court to challenge the single-bench order.
Insiders revealed that the commission extensively discussed the PHC order and is considering various options to overturn it. A senior official stated, “In all likelihood, we will be challenging the order before the Supreme Court.” The commission plans to meet again to finalize this decision.
During the PHC proceedings on Tuesday, Justice Kamran Hayat questioned the legal basis for the ECP to declare intra-party elections null and void while suspending the order related to PTI polls. An ECP official raised objections, emphasizing that a single bench should not have issued such an order.
