The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has taken a stern stance against the alleged disclosure of providing manpower and government machinery to candidates of local body representatives.
The electoral watchdog, in an assertive move, has penned a letter to the Provincial Chief Secretaries and Provincial Election Commissioners, emphasizing the need to adhere to constitutional principles.
Expressing concern, the Commission stated that the facilitation of local government candidates through the use of government resources goes against the constitution. The commission has underscored the importance of maintaining a fair and level playing field for all candidates in the upcoming local body elections.
In a bid to ensure the integrity of the electoral process, the ECP has issued a directive explicitly stating that elected representatives of local governments should refrain from providing undue assistance to candidates in markets and other public spaces. This directive is aimed at preventing any unfair advantage that may arise from the misuse of government resources.
Furthermore, the ECP has warned of strict action against municipal representatives found in violation of these guidelines. The commission is set to deploy monitoring teams to rigorously oversee the conduct of local government representatives and candidates, ensuring compliance with electoral laws.
"The monitoring teams of the Election Commission will be on high alert, strictly observing and scrutinizing any instances of non-compliance," stated a spokesperson for the Election Commission. "Any actions taken in violation of electoral laws will be met with appropriate legal consequences."
