Following the announcement of tentative results by the Election Commission of Pakistan on February 11th, 2024, a Japanese election observer mission, headed by Mr. WADA Mitsuhiro, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, has released its findings regarding the recently held general elections on February 8th.
The observer mission, comprising officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Embassy of Japan in Pakistan, and external experts, conducted thorough monitoring of the electoral activities on-site. In their assessment, the mission noted a commendable commitment from various stakeholders towards ensuring proper and smooth elections, with adherence to prescribed procedures.
However, amidst the generally positive conduct of the elections, the mission also highlighted incidents of violence reported during the electoral process. Expressing heartfelt condolences to the victims of these incidents, Japan underscored the importance of upholding peace and stability during such critical democratic exercises.
Furthermore, Japan acknowledged the ongoing discussions surrounding the fairness and inclusivity of the elections, alongside reports of irregularities. While recognizing these challenges, Japan reiterated its commitment to supporting Pakistan in its journey towards further democratic development.
As a longstanding friend of Pakistan, Japan expressed its hopes for continued progress in democratic governance within the nation. Emphasizing its dedication to supporting Pakistan’s development and prosperity, Japan affirmed its commitment to nurturing and strengthening bilateral relations for mutual benefit.
The observations and statements from the Japanese election observer mission serve as a testament to the international community’s interest and investment in the democratic process in Pakistan, underlining the significance of transparent and inclusive electoral practices in fostering national progress and stability.
