ISLAMABAD:
For the general elections 2024The recent approval by the caretaker federal cabinet for the deployment of Pakistan Army and civil armed forces troops during the upcoming general elections marks a crucial step in ensuring the peaceful conduct of the electoral process. The recommendation from the Interior Ministry, as conveyed by the statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), underscores the strategic placement of these forces at sensitive constituencies and polling stations, further designating them as a rapid response force. This decision, announced following a comprehensive cabinet meeting presided over by Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar, reflects a multifaceted discussion encompassing the prevailing economic, political, and electoral landscape within the country.
The recently approved deployment of Pakistan Army and civil armed forces troops entails a multifaceted role. These forces are tasked with performing critical duties at sensitive constituencies and polling stations, thereby enhancing security measures during the forthcoming general elections. Additionally, they will serve as a rapid response force, ready to address emergent situations swiftly.
This pivotal decision transpired during a cabinet meeting, skillfully chaired by Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar. The meeting encompassed comprehensive discussions, delving into the intricate dynamics of the country’s current economic, political, and electoral landscape. The caretaker government, recognizing the significance of the electoral process, engaged in a thorough examination of the prevailing conditions to ensure a secure and transparent environment for the upcoming elections.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), in anticipation of the electoral event scheduled for February 8, had formally requested the federal government’s support in deploying army and civil armed forces personnel. This proactive step by the ECP, as conveyed through a letter to Federal Interior Secretary Aftab Akbar Durrani, invoked Article 220 of the Constitution. The invocation emphasized the collective responsibility of all executive authorities to support the ECP in fulfilling its functions effectively.
The decision to approve the deployment aligns with the commitment expressed by the top military leadership during a corps commanders conference at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi. Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir, presiding over the conference, affirmed the military’s dedication to providing the “requisite and necessary” support to the ECP for the upcoming elections.
As the caretaker government takes proactive steps to enhance the security apparatus for the electoral process, the decisions made during the cabinet meeting underscore a holistic approach. The discussions spanned various facets of governance, reflecting the caretaker administration’s commitment to addressing economic challenges, political considerations, and the intricacies of the electoral landscape. The convergence of these discussions and decisions positions the country for a more stable, transparent, and secure electoral process in the weeks to come.
