The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has entered into a collaborative effort with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). With the upcoming general elections on the horizon, sources reveal that the ECP will leverage NADRA’s robust server infrastructure, as the commission currently lacks its own server dedicated to safeguarding crucial electoral data.
The collaboration entails the utilization of NADRA’s servers for the upcoming general elections, marking a pivotal step in ensuring the security and efficiency of the electoral process. Recognizing the significance of a secure and resilient system, the ECP will deploy a new Election Management System (EMS) that combines digital and manual methods for result management. The successful testing of the EMS across all provinces underscores the ECP’s comprehensive preparedness for the upcoming elections.
The EMS, designed to streamline and enhance result compilation and reporting, will play a crucial role in generating and processing the general election results. Drawing on experiences from offices at both the Regional and District Election Commissioner levels, the EMS aims to provide a foolproof mechanism for result management. The presiding officers (PO) will transmit polling station results to returning officers (RO), who, armed with a team of four data entry operators each, will meticulously prepare and submit the results to the ECP through a combination of digital and manual channels.
Moreover, the ECP has already conducted rigorous training sessions for the appointed data entry operators of EMS, ensuring they are well equipped to meet modern requirements. The EMS not only enhances efficiency but also caters to varying connectivity scenarios by allowing result transmission with or without internet access.
This strategic collaboration between the ECP and NADRA signifies a forward-looking approach to election management, combining technological advancements with the expertise of key stakeholders. As the electoral process evolves, such initiatives ensure the integrity and transparency of elections, fostering public trust in the democratic process.