FAISALABAD: Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, has been fined Rs 50,000 by the District Returning Officer (DRO) in Faisalabad for violating the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) code of conduct during the PP-116 by-election in Punjab. The DRO noted that Sanaullah did not respond to the notice and must submit the fine receipt to the ECP office, failing which the matter will be escalated.
In a separate move to ensure smooth voting, the Ministry of Interior approved the deployment of the Pakistan Army and Civil Armed Forces from November 22 to 24 for security during the November 23 by-elections. Military personnel will act as second- and third-tier responders and have been granted First Class Magistrate powers under the Anti-Terrorism Act to maintain law and order.
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The ECP emphasized that the forces will oversee electoral security, protect polling staff, and prevent any disruption during the process. This step reflects the Commission’s heightened focus on maintaining a peaceful and transparent voting environment amid concerns over political tensions.
Meanwhile, the Commission is reviewing possible legal action against Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi over remarks made during a campaign speech in Havellian. ECP officials said Afridi’s comments appeared threatening and could intimidate government staff, which would violate the election code of conduct. The emergency meeting aims to determine whether formal notices or disciplinary measures are warranted.
Election authorities reiterated that no public official, including sitting chief ministers, can interfere with electoral staff or attempt to influence the process, underlining the ECP’s commitment to free and fair by-elections.
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