ISLAMABAD: Following the summoning of the finance secretary to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) due to concerns over the lack of funds for the upcoming polls, the interim Information Minister issued a statement denying any brewing crisis on the matter.
In the statement posted on Monday evening, the Information Minister, Solangi, reassured that the ECP would receive whatever funding was required for organizing the elections.
Solangi stated that the cabinet had already approved the funds needed by the ECP, with the Commission now seeking the release of Rs17.4 billion from the already budgeted amount of Rs42 billion. He emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the ECP in holding free and fair elections, in accordance with Article 218(3) of the constitution.
This statement followed the finance secretary’s appearance before the ECP regarding the withholding of funds without explanation. When questioned by a journalist after the meeting, the finance secretary assured that the funds requested by the Commission would be provided.
Finance Secretary Commits to Swift Release of Election Funds Amidst ECP Concerns
Earlier, in response to concerns raised by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), Finance Secretary Imdad Ullah Bosal assured the electoral watchdog on Monday that funds for the upcoming general elections would be released within a day or two.
Bosal appeared before the electoral body after the Finance Ministry failed to respond to inquiries about the allocation of funds for the polls in the budget.
This development arises as Pakistan prepares for the general polls scheduled for February 8, 2024.
The secretary stated that the Finance Ministry would release the funds requested by the Election Commission. The ministry claimed to have received the electoral body’s letter on November 18, four days after it was sent on November 14.
“The disbursement of funds requires approval at various levels,” added the secretary.
Following a meeting with the ECP, the secretary addressed the media.
His appearance at the ECP came after sources informed Geo News that the ECP had taken notice of the government’s failure to provide funds.
According to sources, the government had allocated Rs42 billion for the general elections in the current financial year’s budget. However, the Finance Ministry has only provided Rs10 billion to the ECP so far.
The sources stated that the disbursement of the remaining amount was unreasonably delayed.
“Rs17 billion are urgently needed for the general elections on February 8,” the sources revealed.
Despite repeated approaches and a written reminder to the Finance Ministry for the immediate provision of funds, no positive response has been received, they added.
