Army to provide security for transportation of ballot papers: ECP

• ECP spokesperson responds to media reports about security.
• DROs to ensure secure transportation of ballot papers.
• Local police to also provide security to election staff.

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Saturday said Pakistan Army personnel would accompany ECP staff during the delivery of ballot papers to their designated places given the security situation in sensitive locations, The News reported on Sunday.

The top electoral authority’s spokesperson said this in response to some media reports about the security of ballot papers during their transportation to the offices of District Returning Officers (DROs) for the upcoming general elections.

He noted that after the printing of ballot papers in the printing press, it was the responsibility of the concerned DROs or their designated officials to safely transport them to the offices of DROs.

“These officers ensure secure transportation of ballot papers under their supervision and the protective custody of local police officials. However, considering the seriousness of the situation in some places, Pakistan Army personnel will also provide security during the transportation of ballot papers,” the spokesperson said.

On December 28, 2023, the Pakistan Army’s top brass vowed that the ECP would be provided with necessary military assistance for the polls set to be staged on February 8, 2024.

In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) mentioned that the decision was taken during the two days long 261st Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC) — held at the General Headquarters, with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir in the chair.

“Forum also noted that requisite and necessary support will also be extended to Election Commission of Pakistan for forthcoming general elections,” the military’s media wing had said.