As the clock ticks down to midnight between February 6 and 7, 2024, electioneering has reached a fever pitch across the nation. With just one hour remaining until the conclusion of this report’s filing, political parties are meticulously putting the finishing touches on their on-field campaigns.
This election cycle has been notably distinctive, marked by a delayed surge in electoral fervor owing to the prevailing uncertainty that has cast a shadow over the proceedings.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) made a significant announcement on Monday, declaring the cessation of electioneering at the stroke of midnight between February 6 and 7, 2024.
This directive, as per Section 182 of the Elections Act 2017, explicitly prohibits any political activities beyond the stipulated timeframe. Section 182 reads: “Prohibition of public meetings during a certain period: No person shall convene, hold, or attend any public meeting, or promote or join in any procession, within the area of a constituency or, in the case of the Senate election, a Province, during a period of forty-eight hours ending at midnight following the conclusion of the poll for any election in that constituency or Province.”
Similarly, Section 183 outlines the penalties for illegal practices, stating: “Penalty for illegal practice: A person guilty of the offense of illegal practice shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years or with a fine which may extend to one hundred thousand rupees or with both.”
The ECP has issued a stern warning that any candidate found organizing or participating in meetings, processions, corner meetings, or any such political activities after the stipulated deadline will face legal repercussions. In its appeal, the commission has sought the cooperation of the media and the public to ensure a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.
