Election campaigns to end at midnight, ECP gears up for Oct 14 by-polls
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has finalised all arrangements regarding the by-election to be held on October 14 in 35 constituencies — 11 of National Assembly and 24 of provincial assemblies, ECP spokesperson Nadeem Qasim said on Friday.
Meanwhile, the election campaign of all political parties contesting the by-polls across the country would come to an end at midnight today — 24 hours before the polling day.
According to the ECP’s directives, on the midnight of October 12 and October 13, all public meetings and the political campaign would come to a halt.
The ECP spokesperson has reiterated that it is the responsibility of ECP to hold a free, fair and transparent election to ensure the continuity of smooth democratic process in the country.
“Ballet papers, ballot boxes and other necessary items have been handed over to all relevant presiding officers,” Qasim said.
Explaining the rules and procedures, the ECP official said: “Use of mobile phones would not be allowed in certain areas of the polling station. Moreover, the voter should bring his/her original CNIC to franchise the right of vote.”
He said that ECP would take stern action against those found violating the rules.
Moreover, military personnel would be deputed in and around the polling stations to carry out security arrangements and to assist other law enforcement agencies.
Qasim announced that so far 7,316 overseas voters have been registered through the i-voting system, which was a pilot project of ECP. “The overseas Pakistanis would be allowed to cast their vote during polling timing on October 14 — 8am to 5pm.”