In anticipation of potential security threats during the upcoming elections on February 8, the Caretaker Information Minister of Balochistan, Jan Achakzai, has disclosed that internet services might be temporarily suspended around sensitive polling stations, upon the request of local administration.

While clarifying that there are no official directives from the government regarding internet shutdowns, Achakzai emphasized that such measures could be implemented based on local security assessments.

Concerns primarily focus on areas like Turbat, Mach, and Chaman, where numerous polling stations have been identified as sensitive.

Achakzai stressed the importance of stringent security measures to thwart potential threats, particularly from militant groups leveraging social media platforms to incite violence during the electoral process.

As Pakistani citizens gear up for election day, polling stations are set to open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the government declaring February 8 a public holiday to facilitate voter participation.

Voters must present their original Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) to cast their ballots, with expired CNICs also deemed acceptable.

The electoral landscape reflects significant participation, with 5,121 candidates contesting 265 National Assembly seats and 12,695 candidates vying for 596 provincial assembly seats.

Notably, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) reports a staggering 128,585,760 registered voters nationwide, underscoring the significance of these democratic proceedings.

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