The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announced a significant change for the upcoming February 8 elections. Unlike the 2018 general elections, army officials will now be stationed outside polling stations. This decision ensures a free, fair, and transparent election process.
Notification and Code of Conduct for Security Personnel
The ECP’s notification highlighted that both Pakistani and civil armed forces will deploy in a quick-reaction force mode. They will be positioned outside selected ‘most sensitive’ polling stations from February 5 to February 10. This deployment follows the federal cabinet’s approval and remarks from former Senate chairman Raza Rabbani emphasizing the importance of security forces outside the polling stations.
ECP spokesman Syed Nadeem Haider confirmed that no army personnel would be inside polling stations. He referred to Section 83(4) of the Elections Act 2017, which mandates the cooperation of all officials with the presiding officer to maintain order and ensure uninterrupted voting. The notification also stated that the armed forces are being deployed under Articles 245 and 220 of the Constitution, assisting in security arrangements, including the transportation of ballot papers and election materials.
Additionally, the ECP issued a code of conduct for the armed and civilian forces involved in election security. This code requires them to assist in conducting the elections, ensuring a secure environment, and maintaining impartiality and neutrality. The personnel are instructed to facilitate the election process, behave politely, and handle situations justly according to the law. They are directed not to interfere with voters or election materials or engage in arguments with candidates or media personnel.
The ECP also issued a public advisory regarding fake calls impersonating the Chief Election Commissioner, cautioning the public about these fraudulent communications.
