ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has directed political parties and candidates across the country to conclude their election campaign by Tuesday midnight.
The ECP spokesman announced in a statement on Tuesday that election campaign activities, public meetings, corner meetings, advertisements, and written materials expressing support or opposition for any specific political party or candidate are prohibited on electronic and print media after the deadline period.
The commission has prohibited all types of poll surveys. Dissemination of results can start one hour after the conclusion of polling. Channels and media organizations should clearly label these results as unofficial, the spokesperson said.
Returning officers (Ros) will announce the progressive results of polling stations and complete unofficial results.
The electoral watchdog instructed electronic and print media to strictly adhere to the code of conduct and directed the Pakistan Electronic Media Regularity Authority (PEMRA) and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to take strict action against those who violate the code of conduct.
The election commission, through a notification, has referred to Section 182 of the Election Act 2017, which prohibits political activities after the deadline.
Election Commission Warns of Consequences
The ECP warned that candidates engaging in political activities after the deadline will face legal consequences.
Moreover, the ECP appeals to the media and the public to collaborate for a fair, free, and transparent election process.
