ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has refused to write letters to the Punjab interim government for the provision of security and funds for the upcoming elections. The decision was made during a crucial consultative meeting held on Thursday in Islamabad.
According to the ECP, the Supreme Court of Pakistan verdict was clear and comprehensive, and therefore, no letters would be written to the Punjab caretaker government and finance ministry. The commission further added that the instructions for the finance ministry, Punjab chief secretary, and Punjab IG were clear in the SC’s decision.
The Supreme Court (SC) had directed the finance ministry to provide funds directly, said ECP. The commission also said that the Punjab chief secretary and Punjab IG Police would give the self-management and security plan to the Election Commission of Pakistan.
The commission said the reports of the finance ministry and Punjab caretaker government would submit to the SC by the ECP’s legal team.
Impact of ECP’s decision
The decision has created uncertainty and anxiety among the stakeholders, including the interim government and political parties. The ECP’s decision has also raised concerns about the security arrangements for the elections. Political parties have expressed their reservations and demanded that the ECP take immediate steps to ensure the safety of the candidates and voters during the election process.
The ECP has assured the political parties that it will take all necessary measures to ensure free and fair elections in Punjab. The commission has also urged the political parties to cooperate with the election authorities and follow the election code of conduct.
The reports of the finance ministry and caretaker Punjab government will be submitted to the SC by the ECP’s legal team.
