In a federal cabinet meeting chaired by caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, the cabinet approved the deployment of the Pakistan Army and civil armed forces. The decision aims to support civil institutions conducting free, fair, and peaceful general elections scheduled for February 8.
As outlined in a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, the troops will operate in sensitive constituencies and polling stations and serve as a rapid response force. The cabinet’s decision follows the Ministry of Interior’s recommendation for troop deployment at sensitive polling locations nationwide.
During the meeting, interim Prime Minister Kakar praised Caretaker Finance Minister Dr. Shamshad Akhtar’s efforts to enhance tax revenue and propose reforms for the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). He directed establishing an inter-ministerial committee, under the finance minister’s supervision, for these reforms.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) sought 277,000 army personnel for election security. Political parties continue their campaigns despite attacks on candidates and concerns over law and order. The Senate has seen calls for a poll delay due to these issues.
Incidents include the fatal shooting of independent candidate Kaleemullah Khan in North Waziristan and the killing of PTI’s Shah Khalid in Swabi. Attacks on leaders from PML-N, NDM, National Party, and Senator Dashti have escalated concerns.
In response, the caretaker PM formed a high-level committee to oversee election security. The Pakistan Army has committed to providing necessary military assistance.
Following the approval of the Interior Ministry’s summary, Pakistan Army soldiers, Rangers, and Frontier Constabulary personnel will perform election duties, marking a significant step in ensuring the safety and integrity of the upcoming general elections.
