LAHORE: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) expressed reservations regarding the credibility and dependability of the recent general elections held on February 8, particularly focusing on the post-election procedures on Sunday.
Based on the findings of HRCP’s election monitors who conducted on-site inspections in 51 constituencies, the nationwide shutdown of internet and mobile services on polling day, coupled with unanticipated changes in polling station information, impeded voters’ ability to locate their designated polling stations. This situation disproportionately affected marginalized groups such as women with mobility challenges, persons with disabilities, elderly citizens, and individuals with limited financial means.
A significant concern raised is the prolonged delay in announcing election results by the returning officers. While the polling process itself appeared transparent and peaceful, with well-prepared and equipped polling staff, there were discrepancies in the post-election process. In a fifth of observed polling stations, the presiding officer failed to prominently display the statement of the count or transmit result photographs to the returning officer and the ECP, raising doubts about result accuracy. Allegations surfaced regarding discrepancies between the returning officer’s announcement and the presiding officer’s count.
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Furthermore, instances were reported where candidates, polling agents, and observers were denied access to witness the provisional consolidation of results. HRCP advocates for an independent audit of the 2024 elections supervised by a parliamentary body, stressing that security and intelligence agencies should not interfere in the electoral process. Additionally, the organization recommends parliamentary debate on the effectiveness of the caretaker government scheme and emphasizes the need for uninterrupted cellular and internet services on polling day.
HRCP calls on the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to release all necessary forms under the Elections Act 2017 and orders recounts in closely contested races where rejected ballots surpass the margin of victory upon receiving petitions from aggrieved parties.
The integrity of the 2024 elections, as per HRCP’s documentation, was compromised not only due to ECP’s shortcomings but also due to external pressures and questionable decisions by the caretaker government in the lead-up to the polls.
It is imperative for all parties to prioritize and safeguard civilian authority through consistent, inclusive, and meaningful political dialogue. The true victims of these elections, HRCP argues, are not specific individuals or political entities but rather democratic principles, the rule of law, and the aspirations of ordinary citizens.
