FAFEN observers address press conference at the launch of watchdog's preliminary report on the February 8 election observations. PHOTO: SCREENGRABThe Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) has raised concerns regarding non-compliance by Returning Officers (ROs) with instructions from the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), citing violations that undermine transparency in the electoral process and urging the ECP to investigate non-compliance by ROs. This non-compliance includes the denial of access to FAFEN observers during the tabulation process in 135 constituencies, violating the rights of contesting candidates, their agents, and accredited observers to witness result consolidation. Furthermore, FAFEN highlighted discrepancies in the handling of Form-45 and Form-46 by ROs, with instances of bags being opened without the presence of candidates or their agents. While acknowledging the operational challenges posed by logistical constraints, FAFEN underscored the importance of electoral transparency and called on the ECP to probe non-compliance by ROs.

Source: The Express Tribune February 12, 2024 20:00 UTC