The Chief Election Commissioner of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has ordered the seizure of electric buses provided during the ongoing election period. The commission ruled that their provision violated the election code of conduct.
According to the Election Commission, the use of government resources during an election campaign is strictly prohibited. Therefore, it said any breach of the code of conduct would face strict action.
Election Commission Declares Electric Buses a Code Violation
The Election Commission stated that the distribution and use of the electric buses became controversial during the election campaign.
The commission said the buses had been associated with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s initiative. Consequently, it maintained that providing the buses during the election period was against the election code of conduct.
The decision reflects the commission’s effort to enforce election rules equally throughout the campaign.
Chief Election Commissioner Reaffirms Election Rules
The Chief Election Commissioner said no new development scheme, public facility or gift could be announced or distributed during the election period.
He also reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to ensuring a level playing field for all candidates contesting the elections.
According to the commission, these restrictions are essential to protect the fairness of the electoral process. As a result, authorities have been directed to enforce the rules without exception.
Authorities Directed to Take Buses Into Official Custody
The Election Commission instructed the relevant authorities to take the electric buses into official custody.
At the same time, the commission warned that any violation of the election code of conduct would invite strict action.
Officials also reminded political parties that state resources must not be used for electoral purposes. They stressed that compliance with election laws remains mandatory throughout the campaign.
Political Parties Warned Against Misuse of State Resources
The Election Commission said it is closely monitoring election activities across Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Furthermore, it stated that action would be taken against every reported violation to ensure free, fair and transparent elections.
The commission emphasised that maintaining public confidence in the electoral process remains one of its highest priorities.
Opposition Raises Concerns Over Bus Controversy
Meanwhile, opposition parties described the controversy surrounding the electric buses as an attempt to gain political advantage during the election campaign.
The Election Commission, however, maintained its focus on enforcing the code of conduct. It reiterated that every political stakeholder must follow election rules equally.
By ordering the seizure of the buses, the commission signalled that it would continue taking action wherever it believes election regulations have been violated. It also reaffirmed its commitment to conducting transparent and impartial elections across Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
