In a crucial meeting chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, top government and security officials conveyed their preparedness to conduct general elections on February 8 despite identified threats in various parts of the country. The meeting focused on reviewing preparations, particularly the law and order situation, with a commitment to addressing any potential challenges.
Key attendees included the interior secretary, chief secretaries, and inspectors general from the four provinces, Islamabad’s chief commissioner, members, and the secretary of the Election Commission, along with representatives from law enforcement agencies.
Chief Election Commissioner Raja emphasized the paramount importance of ensuring safety and security for political parties, candidates, and voters. He stressed the need to create a conducive environment for citizens to exercise their right to vote without fear.
Amid threat alerts in specific areas, officials affirmed an unwavering commitment to peaceful elections. Measures such as the installation of CCTV cameras at sensitive polling stations and the timely provision of funds to relevant agencies were highlighted during the meeting.
Mr. Raja directed a prioritization of security for political leaders and voters, with strict adherence to the election code of conduct. The meeting addressed the shortage of police personnel, with assurances of support from other security agencies if needed.
Balochistan’s chief secretary discussed the formation of peace committees at polling stations, while Punjab’s chief secretary called for clear policy instructions regarding changes in the allotment of election symbols to avoid delays.
Chief Election Commissioner Raja disclosed that the printing of ballot papers was already underway, underscoring that changes to election symbols could disrupt the schedule and pose challenges in holding polls in affected constituencies.
The interior secretary informed participants about the establishment of control rooms at the federal level for elections. He assured that the interior ministry was in coordination with all institutions, and necessary measures were in place to facilitate the ECP in holding peaceful elections.
Addressing concerns about potential delays, Senator Sherry Rehman from the PPP reiterated the party’s commitment to a timely electoral process. She emphasized that a level playing field could only be guaranteed if all PPP candidates received their electoral symbols on time.
The PPP raised concerns over symbol allocation for specific candidates in Punjab, urging prompt resolution for a fair and transparent electoral process. The Chief Election Commissioner reaffirmed the commitment to strict monitoring of elections and emphasized that polls would be held as scheduled on February 8. The meeting also addressed repair work on flood-affected polling stations and ensured accessibility to snow-affected districts on election day.
