News Desk
Islamabad, February 10, 2024: The Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) has issued its preliminary observation report on the General Election 2024 in Pakistan. Approximately 60 million voters participated in the electoral process on February 8, 2024, to elect representatives in 265 National Assembly and 590 Provincial Assembly constituencies.
Despite a backdrop of political upheaval and polarization in the preceding years, all political parties remained engaged in the electoral race, reflecting a positive commitment to Pakistan’s democracy. Concerns about media freedom constraints and sporadic incidents of expression restrictions were noted; however, the media played a vital role in informing voters, contributing to an informed electoral decision-making process.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) received acknowledgment for organizing the country’s largest electoral exercise in a reasonably orderly manner, despite challenges. Over 1.1 million election officials and 0.7 million security personnel ensured the integrity of the voting process and maintained peace on election day, despite fears of violence.
However, delays in announcing preliminary election results and the suspension of cellular and internet services on election day raised questions about the credibility of the election outcome. These actions undermined efforts to maximize the integrity, efficiency, and transparency of electoral outcomes, as outlined in the Elections Act, 2017.
The preliminary report is based on observations from 5,664 FAFEN observers across 22,656 polling stations, covering approximately 25% of the total stations. Due to the suspension of cellular data services, many observers couldn’t transmit their reports, hindering FAFEN’s planned progressive voter turnout reports for election day.
The report includes observations from 3,534 observers covering 12,177 polling stations in 262 National Assembly constituencies, along with constituency-level reports from 231 long-term observers and observations of preliminary result preparation at Returning Officers’ offices in 265 NA constituencies.
FAFEN commends the Election Commission for facilitating a hassle-free observer accreditation process, reflecting a commitment to transparency in electoral processes.
Very important point, From various points local inhabitants were picked by Police about 72-96 hours before the poling. This act damaged and shacked the ML (N) voters. The voters felt that this action is taken on the behalf or on the demand of N league candidates. Please inquire and if possible after inquiry add it in the report