The excitement is building up as the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) announces its plans for the upcoming general elections in 2024. With just a few months to go, preparations are in full swing to ensure a smooth and fair electoral process. One of the key aspects of these preparations is the establishment of over 92,000 polling stations across the country.
The ECP has left no stone unturned in finalizing the scheme for these polling stations. This comprehensive plan will be publicly released shortly before the election date, ensuring that all citizens are well-informed and ready to participate in this crucial democratic process. By addressing any potential concerns well in advance, the ECP aims to create an environment of transparency and trust.
The distribution of these polling stations will cover all four provinces and the federal capital. Each station will be categorized as normal, sensitive, or highly sensitive based on the security situation and electoral violence history. This categorization ensures that appropriate measures can be taken to safeguard the voting process and protect the rights of the voters.
Across the nation, a total of 92,353 polling stations will be set up. In Punjab, the most populous province, 52,412 polling stations will be established. Among them, 6,040 have been classified as highly sensitive, while 15,617 have been marked as sensitive. This careful categorization allows for targeted security arrangements in areas where they are most needed.
Moving on to Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, a total of 15,737 polling stations will be set up. Of these, 4,726 have been identified as highly sensitive, and 6,180 as sensitive. This shows the ECP’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the electoral process in every corner of the country.
In Sindh, 4,718 polling stations are categorized as normal, 6,576 as sensitive, and 7,802 as highly sensitive. This careful distribution takes into account the unique challenges and dynamics of each region, ensuring that the voting process remains fair and transparent.
Lastly, in Balochistan, 5,015 polling stations will be set up, providing ample opportunities for citizens to exercise their right to vote. The ECP has made it clear that necessary facilities and security arrangements will be provided at each polling station to ensure a free and fair election.
As the general elections draw near, candidates have also been reminded of their responsibilities. According to the Elections Act, 2017, all election campaigns must conclude by midnight on February 6. Failure to comply with this deadline may result in legal consequences for the violators. This reminder underscores the commitment of the ECP to uphold the rule of law and maintain a level playing field for all candidates.
With over 92,000 polling stations being set up across the country, the stage is set for a historic general election in 2024. The ECP’s meticulous planning and attention to detail ensure that every citizen will have the opportunity to cast their vote in a secure and transparent environment. Let us embrace this democratic process and make our voices heard as we shape the future of our great nation.