Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Parliamentary Affairs convened in Islamabad to dissect a comprehensive analysis by the Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) regarding the 2024 General Elections. Chaired by Senator Dr. Mohammad Humayun Mohmand, the meeting brought together FAFEN representatives, officials from the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, and several Senators, including Pervaiz Rasheed and Kamran Murtaza.

FAFEN presented an in-depth analysis of the electoral procedures and identified procedural flaws, urging for simplified processes to improve accessibility in election tribunals. The network highlighted significant issues, such as a problematic voter-to-representative ratio and dissatisfaction with polling arrangements, which necessitated immediate attention.

The committee also scrutinized the manipulation of postal ballots, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, raising concerns over the lack of transparency in their use. FAFEN noted discrepancies in postal ballot counts, urging for immediate counting and decision-making on rejected votes at the time of tallying.

Confusion over similar election symbols and the impact of blocked mobile and internet services on the Result Transmission System were also discussed. The meeting underlined the need for financial transparency in election campaigns, with FAFEN advocating for strict expenditure caps and public disclosure.

The committee highlighted the importance of electoral reforms, including allowing overseas Pakistanis to vote and increasing minority representation. An independent delimitation commission and adoption of electronic voting machines were recommended to enhance election integrity.

The session concluded with Chairman Mohmand emphasizing the need for system improvements to restore public confidence in electoral fairness. The committee resolved to continue discussions on proposed reforms in subsequent meetings.