The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) emphasized that caretaker governments must ensure “free and fair” elections, cautioning them against any actions that might influence the electoral process. Their statement clarified that while caretakers shouldn’t attempt to sway election outcomes, they can proceed with bilateral or multilateral agreements already underway, provided the Commission is informed.
Furthermore, the ECP highlighted that the interim governments, as non-political entities, can decide on existing projects under specific acts and ordinances, including the Public Private Partnership Authority Act 2017 and the Privatization Commission Ordinance 2000. Still, they must keep the Commission in the loop.
Review of Election Preparations
A meeting chaired by ECP Secretary Omar Hamid Khan convened to assess the preparations for the imminent general elections. Top officials from various branches of the Commission, including the special secretary, provincial election commissioners, and the director-general of law, were in attendance. They updated Khan on the status of their election arrangements.
Pleased with the progress, Khan issued directives for further coordination and finalization of preparations, emphasizing the necessity for the prompt availability of crucial election materials. He warned against any negligence in these preparations. To ensure thorough adherence to these guidelines, the special secretary established a supervisory committee.