Senate elections: ECP releases candidate and party codes of conduct

A complete code of conduct has been released by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in advance of the 2019 Senate elections with the goal of guaranteeing electoral fairness, honesty, and transparency.

Strict rules are enforced by the code of conduct for candidates and political parties running in the elections.

One of the main clauses forbids political parties and candidates from criticizing Pakistan’s integrity and philosophy. Furthermore, it is completely prohibited to make any remarks that aim to disparage the military, the legislature, or the judiciary.

It is also requested that political parties and candidates abstain from any kind of controversy surrounding the Election Commission of Pakistan. Additionally, they are forbidden from participating in any corrupt or unlawful activity. Moreover, it is strictly forbidden for public office holders to endorse candidates in an attempt to sway the results of the election.

During the election process, government employees are encouraged to remain impartial and neither endorse or oppose any candidate. To preserve the integrity of the election process, the president and provincial governors are also prohibited from taking part in Senate campaigns.

There are further limitations that apply to voters, such as the ban on cell phone use within polling places in order to minimize possible disruptions or interference.

See Also: Schedule for the 2024 Senate Elections

The rule of conduct places a maximum of Rs1.5 million on each candidate’s election expenditures in terms of financial restrictions. All candidates must open bank accounts for election expenditures prior to submitting any paperwork, and those who are successful must turn in their election-related expenses to the returning officer within five days.

In order to preserve the integrity of the electoral process and protect citizens’ democratic rights, stakeholders are asked to abide by the code of conduct as the nation prepares for the Senate elections.