The Commonwealth Observer Group (COG) on Saturday unveiled its initial findings on Pakistan's general elections this year, highlighting the commendable efforts of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and other institutions for conducting the polls.
Addressing a news conference, COG Chairperson Dr Goodluck Jonathan acknowledged Pakistan's significance as one of the world's largest democracies and emphasised the importance of these elections for its people.
The COG chief expressed his gratitude for the invitation to observe the elections and commended the ECP for the logistical preparations amid the challenges it faced.
He said his group adhered to the principles of impartiality, non-interference, and independence during its deployment as well as engaging with various stakeholders.
He added that the COG observers were deployed in various areas including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, Karachi, Hyderabad and Abbottabad on February 6 to observe election preparations.
Recognising and appreciating the substantial work by the ECP, the COG chairperson noted the delays in proceeding with the polls, attributing them to the significant task of organising an election involving around 128 million registered voters.
He also acknowledged the security challenges and extended his with condolences for the lives lost in terrorist attacks leading up to day of the elections.
The impact of adverse weather conditions, including snowbound areas and the damages caused by floods in 2022, was also highlighted.
Dr Jonathan mentioned the substantially reformed legal framework leading up to this year’s general elections, highlighting the importance of continued reform in line with the Constitution and Commonwealth Charter values.
He continued that the areas for refinement in the legal framework would be detailed in the final report.
Lauding the reduction in the national gender gap in registered voters, he noted concerns about the low participation of female candidates as well as some communities discouraging women from campaigning and voting.
The youth engagement in campaigns, especially on social media, was commended, but challenges for minority communities were mentioned.
The COG chairperson underscored the significance of a legal and administrative environment conducive to citizens' right to run for office and vote.
He noted the implementation of codes of conduct for political parties and the media, with calls for more stakeholder engagement.
He added that the complete recommendations to ensure transparency in this connection would be included in the final report.
While commending the ECP's efforts to improve management through the Election Management System (EMS), he acknowledged the operational challenges on the polling day that would be elaborated upon in subsequent observations.
He provided a detailed overview of the pre-election procedures, polling environment, voter turnout, role of the polling staff, participation and inclusion, and the overall security situation.
Noteworthy observations included increased voter turnout throughout the day, the presence of youth and women in polling stations, and commendation for security officials' professionalism.
As the results process unfolds, the COG chairperson congratulated the people of Pakistan for their patience and determination, urging citizens to continue exercising restraint.
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He emphasised the significance of elections in democracy; called for magnanimity in victory and graciousness in defeat, and reiterated the Commonwealth's commitment to supporting Pakistan's post-polls journey.
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