ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Saturday said that Pakistan Army personnel will accompany the ECP staff during the delivery of ballot papers to their designated locations in view of the security situation at sensitive locations, The News reported on Sunday.
The spokesperson of the Supreme Electoral Office said this in response to some media reports about the security of ballot papers during their transportation to the offices of District Returning Officers (DROs) for the upcoming general elections.
He noted that after the ballot papers are printed at the printing press, it is the responsibility of the concerned DROs or their designated officials to transport them safely to the DRO offices.
“These police officers ensure the safe transport of ballot papers under their supervision and in the protective custody of local police officials. However, in view of the seriousness of the situation in some places, security during the transportation of ballot papers will also be provided by the personnel of the Pakistani army,” said the spokeswoman.
On 28 December 2023, a top official of the Pakistan Army promised that the ECP would be provided with the necessary military assistance for the elections to be held on 8 February 2024.
Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement that the decision was taken during the two-day 261st Corps Commanders Conference (CCC) – held at the General Headquarters under Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim. Munir in the chair.
“The forum also noted that necessary and necessary support will also be provided to the Election Commission of Pakistan for the upcoming general elections,” the army’s media wing said.
