The Election Commission of Pakistan has declared an interview of a representative of Pattan, which aired on a private TV channel, and Pattan's press release dated 8th February 2024, as baseless and contrary to facts. The Commission stated that the report appears to be part of a well-organized conspiracy aimed at maligning national institutions and officials of the Election Commission. It is important to clarify that all forms 46, 45, and 47 received by the Returning Officers were published on the Election Commission's website without any alterations, and they remain available online to this day. Affected parties have filed their election petitions in accordance with the law in election tribunals, and hearings are ongoing. Several tribunals have already heard the parties' arguments and passed decisions on some petitions. Voter turnout has been included in the Election Commission's annual and post-election reports, which are being published as per the law. Regarding reserved seats for women and minorities, the Election Commission refrains from making any comments, as the matter is sub judice. The Commission will take a decision on this issue in accordance with the Constitution and law. If anyone possesses material evidence of irregularities, it should be provided to the concerned candidates and affected parties, so they can present it before the tribunals for appropriate legal action on the petitions. It is noteworthy that any such report holds no significance unless the Election Commission's stance is sought beforehand. It would have been more appropriate for the report to have been published after obtaining the Election Commission's viewpoint, as this report was released without considering the Commission's position, indicating that it is part of a baseless and fabricated propaganda campaign. The Election Commission will not be intimidated by such tactics and will continue to perform its duties in accordance with the Constitution and law.
PREVIOUS NEXT
