The Election Commission of Pakistan strongly condemns the news item appeared in print media wherein an official of a political party has blamed Rangers and the ECP for their defeat in PS-59 Badin.
ELECTION COMMISSION OF PAKISTAN
*****
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad, the 17th March, 2016. The Election Commission of Pakistan strongly condemns the news item appeared in print media wherein an official of a political party has blamed Rangers and the ECP for their defeat in PS-59 Badin. It is clarified here that under Article 218(3) of the constitution, it is the duty of the Election Commission of Pakistan to organize and conduct elections and to make such arrangements as are necessary to conduct elections honestly, justly, fairly and in accordance with the law and that corrupt practices are guarded against. It is imperative for the Election Commission of Pakistan being an independent constitutional body to provide a level playing field to all contesting candidates. Under Article 220 of the Constitution, it is the duty of all executive authorities in the Federation and in provinces to assist the Election Commission of Pakistan in discharge of its functions. Accordingly, the ECP has been invoking its mandate by seeking assistance of Pakistan Army, Rangers or Police through the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Interior and the Provincial Governments. In order to conduct the elections in PS-59 in a fair, free and peaceful manner, the Election Commission deployed Sindh Rangers in that constituency to avoid any untoward situation or undue influence. The ECP appreciates the role of Sindh Rangers, being a non-political force, for peaceful conduct of elections in the said constituency. The Rangers