ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has begun preparations for the country’s next general elections nearly two years ahead of the expected electoral activity, marking an early start to the election planning process.
According to details, the ECP has decided to update its database of election officials and staff across the country to ensure timely arrangements for future elections.
The commission has unusually started compiling the election staff database well in advance and has sent a letter to provincial election commissioners in this regard.
Provincial authorities have subsequently instructed district election commissioners to update the database of election personnel. The ECP has directed officials to compile records of officers and employees working in all government departments.
All district election commissioners have been given 10 days to complete the database and submit confirmation to the ECP.
ALSO READ: Zartaj Gul, Hamid Raza and Abdul Latif Disqualified by ECP Over Asset Declarations
According to the letter, the updated database of election officials will be used to facilitate timely arrangements and administrative measures during the next elections.
Polling Stations to Be Reviewed
The ECP has also directed officials to complete records of election staff at the district level and has decided to update the existing list of polling stations across the country.
Officials in all districts of the four provinces have been instructed to verify the existing polling stations.
District election commissioners have also been directed to identify suitable buildings for the establishment of new polling stations.
The move comes amid an increase in the number of registered voters, which may require additional polling stations to accommodate voters and facilitate the electoral process.
The ECP has ordered a fresh review of the existing polling station lists in all districts. Suitable government and other buildings will be identified for use as new polling stations where required.
The early preparations are aimed at ensuring that election-related arrangements, including staffing and polling infrastructure, can be completed efficiently and on time when the next electoral process begins.
