ISLAMABAD: Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has taken decisive action by summoning the finance secretary to address serious concerns regarding the non-provision of funds essential for the upcoming general elections scheduled for February 8 next year.
The ECP, the constitutional authority responsible for overseeing elections in Pakistan, has reportedly sent a notice to the finance secretary, expressing dissatisfaction with the delay in releasing the allocated funds for the crucial polls.
According to informed sources, the electoral body had initially earmarked Rs42 billion in the budget for the current financial year to facilitate the general elections. However, the Finance Ministry has only disbursed Rs10 billion thus far, leaving a substantial amount pending. This disparity raises significant concerns about the financial preparedness required for the smooth and effective conduct of the upcoming elections.
The sources emphasized the urgency of disbursing the remaining Rs17 billion promptly to ensure that the electoral process remains on schedule. This funding is crucial for addressing various operational aspects, including logistics, security, and administrative expenses associated with organizing a comprehensive electoral exercise.
Despite repeated appeals from the Election Commission and a written reminder to the Finance Ministry requesting the immediate provision of the allocated funds, there has been no positive response. This has prompted the Chief Election Commissioner, Sikandar Sultan Raja, to take further action. In light of the situation, the Chief Election Commissioner has decided to inform the Caretaker Prime Minister, Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar, about the non-provision of funds by the Finance Ministry. A detailed letter is reportedly being prepared to apprise the prime minister of the critical financial shortfall.
As Pakistan approaches the general elections scheduled for February 8, 2024, political parties are intensifying their preparations for what is expected to be a closely contested electoral battle. The Election Commission of Pakistan has already taken steps such as notifying the final list of delimitation of constituencies for the national and four provincial assemblies. An announcement of the election schedule is anticipated later this week, as the electoral watchdog plays a crucial role in ensuring the democratic process unfolds smoothly.
The Finance Ministry’s delay in disbursing the allocated funds has raised concerns about the potential impact on the electoral process’s integrity and effectiveness. With the Chief Election Commissioner escalating the matter to the Caretaker Prime Minister, there is a heightened expectation for swift and decisive action to address the financial challenges and uphold the democratic principles integral to Pakistan’s electoral system.
