Karachi, The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has issued a comprehensive Code of Conduct for Armed and Civil Armed Forces, outlining their roles and responsibilities to ensure robust security during the forthcoming General Elections.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the code of conduct was detailed in a notification released by the ECP. It specifies that the police will act as the first line of defense, followed by Civil Armed Forces and Armed Forces as the second and third tiers, respectively. These forces will be deployed outside selected Most Sensitive Polling Stations and will also be responsible for securing printing presses during the printing of ballot papers.
The ECP’s code of conduct mandates that security personnel must maintain impartiality and neutrality throughout the election process, particularly during voting. Their duties include overseeing the safe transportation of election materials and ensuring that voters have secure and unobstructed access to polling stations.
Security personnel are tasked with identifying suspicious individuals for police checks, thereby preventing the entry of weapons, explosives, or other undesirable items into polling premises. While stationed outside the most sensitive polling stations, their primary focus will be on maintaining a secure environment.
In instances of irregularities, issues, or malpractices, security personnel are instructed to report these to the Presiding Officer. If the Presiding Officer fails to act, the information must be relayed immediately to the concerned Returning Officer.
The code also outlines that accredited observers and media persons are permitted to enter polling stations. However, security personnel are not authorized to assume the duties of polling staff or handle any election materials. They are strictly prohibited from interfering with the functions of election officials or the counting process.
In cases where irregularities or malpractices persist, security personnel are required to inform their Officer In-Charge for prompt legal action. Their role outside the polling stations is crucial to ensure the peaceful completion of the counting process.
The ECP’s release of this code of conduct underscores its commitment to conducting a fair and secure election, with an emphasis on the crucial role of security forces in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.