Only 166 out of the 3,000 prisoners spread across 12 prisons and 17 judicial lock-ups in Balochistan have applied for postal ballots, indicating a significant lack of enthusiasm for the upcoming elections.
The majority of applicants, numbering 162, hail from Loralai, Pishin, and Sibi, with 103 applying from Central Jail Mach, three from Central Jail Mastung, 18 from District Jail Dera Murad Jamali, and 15 from Loralai. Furthermore, 12 inmates from District Jail Zhob, six from District Jail Sibi, and five from District Jail Pishin have also shown interest in casting their votes via postal ballot.
Read Imran among 145 Adiala inmates using postal ballots
This low turnout prompts concerns regarding the level of political engagement among Balochistan’s incarcerated population, according to a senior prisons official. Factors such as limited awareness or apathy may contribute to this tepid response.
Efforts are underway by Balochistan’s prison authorities and electoral officials to educate eligible prisoners about their voting rights and the process of applying for postal ballots. As the election date draws near, initiatives are being ramped up to boost active participation from the prison community in shaping the democratic process.
Collaboration between the prison administration and election authorities aims to address any concerns or barriers that might deter prisoners from engaging in the electoral process.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 31st, 2024.
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