Ensure credible polls

It is good omen that arrangements for February 8 ballot are in full swing

It is a good omen that arrangements for the February 8 ballot are in full swing. The deployment of armed forces personnel on the fateful day at the polling stations will go a long way in ensuring credibility of polls. It will also enable and encourage the electorate to flock out and use their right of adult franchise in serenity. The fact that the security forces had expressed their willingness to monitor and secure the environment on poll day is an appreciated move, especially keeping in view their commitment at borders in the wake of uneasy peace on the frontiers. This is, indeed, a service to democracy and is highly valued.

The stationing of soldiers at sensitive constituencies is a guarantee that the sanctity of the ballot will be preserved. Thus, concerns exhibited by some political quarters against the presence of men in uniform inside the polling booth are unacceptable. Pakistan has seen severe law and order situation, and administrative hiccups on such occasions in the past, and it is only the credibility and impartiality of armed forces that can ensure an undisputed outcome of elections. It is also encouraging to note that soldiers will also act as a rapid response force in any eventuality. The caretaker government’s decision to post more than 277,000 army, Rangers and FC personnel on the advice of the Election Commission has surely come as a relief to the entire electioneering process.

Now is the time for local administrations and concerned authorities to ensure that fairness and transparency is ensured. With election campaign gearing momentum, as less than two weeks are left behind for the ballot, a level-playing field to all the contestants is a must. It is worrisome that PTI-backed Independent candidates are under the wrath and are unable to campaign at ease. This discrimination is unwarranted and must come to an end. The polls on February 8 are crucial for the country’s socio-economic future, and only a credible outcome can usher in political stability. Time to get introspective and come out strongly by holding free and fair elections.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 25^th, 2024.

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