The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has issued an advisory to government employees, prohibiting them from participating in political activities ahead of the general election of 2024. The advisory states that government officials up to Grade 19 can have their leave sanctioned by District Returning Officers (DROs), while officers in Grade 20 and above must obtain leave approval directly from the commission.
The ECP has also issued instructions regarding canvassing through banners, posters, and handbills, with a complete ban on wall chalking of any size. The commission has emphasized that violations will be treated as illegal practices, and under no circumstances should the picture of a government official be printed on any publicity material by any political party, candidate, or election agent.
The ECP stated that no person or political party would affix or distribute posters, handbills, pamphlets, leaflets, banners, or portraits larger than the sizes prescribed by the ECP. The commission has directed all provinces and the federal capital territory regarding the sizes and other details related to canvassing material.
The ECP’s advisory aims to maintain the sanctity of Holy Quranic verses, the sayings of the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him), or holy scriptures about other religions. The political parties, candidates, and election agents are expected to avoid printing such material on their publicity materials.
The ECP’s advisory for government employees and political parties emphasizes the importance of maintaining a fair and transparent electoral process. The commission has taken strict measures to ensure compliance with the prescribed guidelines and has warned of legal action against those who violate the rules.
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