Islamabad, December 26, 2023: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has sounded a stern warning to government employees, cautioning them against engaging in political activities as the country gears up for the upcoming general elections.
In a decisive move, the ECP issued a pre-election advisory on Tuesday, instructing government officers and employees to steer clear of any involvement in political affairs.
The advisory, a preemptive measure ahead of the general elections, emphasizes the importance of maintaining neutrality and professionalism among government officials during the electoral process. According to the circular released by the ECP, government officials and employees are explicitly prohibited from participating in any form of election-related activities.
The circular outlines stringent guidelines for government officials, underscoring the need for strict adherence to the principles of impartiality and non-partisanship. As per the advisory, government officials seeking leave during the election period must follow a formal procedure. Leave requests for government employees up to grade 19 must be approved by the Returning Officers (ROs), while district officers are mandated to seek permission from the District Returning Officers (DRO) for their leaves.
The ECP advisory makes it clear that federal government employees in grades 20 and above face more rigorous scrutiny in their pursuit of leave during the election period. Officials in Grade-20 and above are required to obtain leave approval directly from the Election Commission, underscoring the heightened responsibility and accountability associated with their positions.
This move by the Election Commission is seen as a proactive measure to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that government employees maintain an unbiased stance. By restricting political involvement, the ECP aims to create an environment that upholds the democratic values of fairness and equal representation.
The advisory comes at a crucial juncture, signaling the beginning of the election season in Pakistan. With political fervor on the rise, the ECP’s emphasis on the non-participation of government employees serves as a reminder of the importance of a level playing field during elections.
The Election Commission of Pakistan has historically played a vital role in overseeing transparent and fair elections. This advisory adds another layer to their commitment to upholding democratic principles and fostering an environment where citizens can exercise their right to vote without any undue influence.
As the nation anticipates the unfolding of political events leading up to the general elections, the ECP’s advisory sets the tone for a democratic process that is free from any potential interference or bias from government employees.
