The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday, in consultation with the Pakistan Army, finalised its security strategy for the July 25 general elections.
The armed forces are expected to provide security to ensure the smooth conduct of elections. The final security plan will be announced after a consensus with law enforcement agencies as well as interim authorities in federal and provincial governments. According to sources, the Pakistan Army may perform responsibilities as a rapid response force to ensure the secure conduct of general elections. Army personnel may also be stationed for securing logistics and printing of ballot papers by the election commission.
The ECP will send a formal request to the Ministry of Defence at General Headquarters (GHQ), sources revealed, adding that the decision for services by the forces will be made by the military high-ups.
Sources revealed that the military has already assured the ECP of its full cooperation. In addition, security for general elections will be ensured by police, Rangers and other law enforcement agencies. Once announced, the security plan will be the joint responsibility of all stakeholders.
According to reports, Article 220 of the constitution allows the commission to seek support from Pakistan Army during polls. The ECP has had support from the army during various elections and by-elections. In addition to the security plan, the ECP will only accept nomination papers for provincial and national assemblies after thorough scrutiny and fulfilment of requirements by the ticket holders. The commission will ensure that the nominees fully comply with all the conditions stated in Articles 62 and 63 of the constitution.
A fully coordinated strategy will be chalked out in order to ensure that the elections are carried out in strict compliance with the code of conduct announced by the ECP.
Strict action will be taken against political parties and independent candidates violating the given rules and code of conduct.
Published in Daily Times, May 30th 2018.