In a bid to ensure the credibility and transparency of Pakistan’s upcoming general elections, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar met with former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, who is leading the Commonwealth Observer Group (COG). Kakar expressed his commitment to facilitating a peaceful and orderly electoral process, despite the challenges faced in the lead-up to the polls.
Pakistan’s Commitment to Democratic Values
Kakar emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to upholding its obligations as a Commonwealth member, highlighting the invitation extended to independent international observers to witness the electoral process. He noted that his administration had diligently fulfilled its responsibilities to create a conducive environment for the elections and urged Pakistani citizens to actively participate in exercising their democratic right to vote.
Commonwealth Observers’ Mandate
In his capacity as COG Chairman, Jonathan expressed gratitude for the warm reception accorded to the observer group upon their arrival in Islamabad. He reiterated that the COG’s mission in Pakistan was to observe the elections in strict adherence to Commonwealth guidelines, following an invitation from the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
Ensuring Neutrality and Impartiality
Jonathan emphasized the COG’s commitment to neutrality, impartiality, objectivity, and independence in conducting its duties and assessing the electoral process. The observer group, comprising experts from across the Commonwealth, arrived in Pakistan last week and will remain in the country throughout the electoral process.
Stakeholder Engagements
Since their arrival, the COG members have engaged in stakeholder briefings, meeting with political parties, security forces, civil society groups, citizen observer and monitor groups, the media, and the ECP. These interactions aim to gather comprehensive insights into the electoral landscape and ensure a thorough understanding of the preparations and procedures in place.
Preliminary Findings and Interim Statement
On Election Day, COG members will closely observe various stages of the electoral process, including the opening of polling stations, voting, closing, counting, and results management. Following their observations, the group will issue an interim statement on its preliminary findings on February 10, 2024.
Pakistan’s commitment to democratic values and the presence of the Commonwealth Observer Group underscore the importance of ensuring a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process. The COG’s findings and recommendations will contribute to strengthening Pakistan’s democratic institutions and promoting good governance.