As the highly anticipated Election Day for 2024 draws near on February 8th, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has issued essential directives to guarantee a fair and transparent electoral process. These guidelines aim to create a level playing field for all candidates and ensure voters can exercise their right to choose freely.
Election Commission of Pakistan emphasizes that on February 6, election campaigning formally concluded. Subsequently, any additional promotional endeavors, rallies, or attempts to sway electors are unequivocally proscribed. At this time, the emphasis is on guaranteeing a transparent and efficient polling day process.
In order to safeguard impartiality and mitigate unwarranted sway, a restricted area has been delineated around every polling station by the ECP. Every type of electioneering is rigorously prohibited within a 400-meter radius. This encompasses imposing a specific candidate’s candidacy on individuals or impeding their exercise of personal preference. Everyone is urged by the Election Commission of Pakistan to observe this zone and assist in conducting a peaceful and fair election.
In addition, it is a requirement of the ECP that no banners or flags be displayed within a 100-meter distance from polling stations. The objective is to establish a setting devoid of any visual impact, thereby enabling electors to exercise their independent judgment and render unbiased judgments.
In order to provide space for political parties, candidates, and their representatives to establish compounds, the ECP has allocated designated areas. These sites are required to be situated a minimum of 400 meters away from polling stations in rural regions, with a reduction to 100 meters in urban areas. This measure guarantees an unambiguous demarcation between electoral activities and the campaign itself.
Read also: Pakistan Voting Works: How to Vote in Election 2024
To obtain additional clarifications and comprehensive information, the ECP recommends that individuals visit their official website or subscribe to their social media channels. Voters must remain informed in order to comprehend their rights and obligations and, ultimately, to actively engage in this vital democratic process.