ISLAMABAD : The Election Commission of Pakistan has addressed the controversial remarks made during the rally in Havelian, summoning Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and Shahbaz Omar Ayub, the candidate in the by-election.
The Commission highlighted that during his speech, the chief minister issued threats directed at the district administration, police, and election staff, while seemingly inciting the public attending the event. Furthermore, it pointed out the presence of a fugitive criminal alongside him, whose spouse is contesting the by-election.
The ECP emphasized that such conduct by the province’s chief executive has significantly impacted the organization of peaceful by-elections in NA-18 Haripur.
Notices have been sent to Suhail Afridi and candidate Shehernaz Omar Ayub for breaching the Elections Act 2017 and the established code of conduct, summoning them to address their actions.
In response, the ECP instructed the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Election Commissioner to promptly engage with the Chief Secretary and Inspector General to implement essential security measures, with a detailed report to be submitted to the Commission.
Additionally, the Commission resolved to send an urgent correspondence to the Secretary of the Interior Ministry, calling for comprehensive security arrangements in coordination with federal security agencies. This step aims to safeguard the District Returning Officer, other election staff, voters, and residents within the constituency.
The ECP firmly stated that any efforts by individuals, public figures, or office-holders to interfere with or disrupt the election process during the by-elections will result in stringent legal consequences.
