The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has given its approval to 18 significant amendments to the election rules, marking a pivotal development in the electoral process. These changes come with a 15-day window for objections to be raised, ensuring transparency and accountability.
One noteworthy amendment mandates that candidates establish a dedicated bank account solely for election campaign expenses, explicitly prohibiting the use of joint accounts. This move aims to enhance financial transparency in election campaigns.
Another crucial alteration requires returning officers (ROs) to provide election results to candidates at the District Election Commission’s office, promoting timely dissemination of results.
In an effort to safeguard the integrity of postal ballots, they will now be sent in separate packets to the relevant ROs. If the RO does not receive the ballots before election day, these votes will not be counted, ensuring the security of the electoral process.
To expedite result announcements, ROs are now obligated to promptly inform the electoral watchdog if results are not declared by 2:00 am, providing reasons for any delays. Election results will be shared in the presence of all candidates, and ROs will complete forms 47, 48, and 49 before sealing them, enhancing transparency.
The amended rules also require candidates to meticulously calculate their electioneering expenses and furnish the details to the ECP, promoting financial accountability.
A novel provision specifies that the cost of filing an election-related petition with the ECP will be Rs100,000, with the ECP mandated to render a decision within 180 days, streamlining the petition process.
In an effort to discourage unnecessary adjournments, candidates requesting a postponement of petition hearings will now incur fines ranging from Rs10,000 to Rs50,000, with the adjournment period limited to three days, as per the amended rule.
Enhancing transparency within political parties, they are now obligated to notify the election commission of intra-party elections 15 days before they occur and submit the results to the ECP within seven days of the elections.
Lastly, any fines imposed by the election commission will be directed to the national exchequer, ensuring fiscal responsibility and accountability. These amendments mark a significant step towards strengthening Pakistan’s electoral process.
