USE OF STATE MACHINERY AND STATE RESOURCES IN THE ELECTION CAMPAIGN IS NOT ALLOWED UNDER THE CODE OF CONDUCT
—CHIEF ELECTION COMMISSIONER
Islamabad, the 30th July, 2005.- Mr. Justice Abdul Hameed Dogar, Chief Election Commissioner has taken a very serious view of the complaints received from various quarters and reports appearing in newspapers that in certain areas State machinery is being used in the election campaign. Recently National Assembly Standing Committee on Local Government has also shown concern in this regard.
2. The Chief Election Commissioner has drawn attention of the candidates to the provision of clause (27) of the Code of Conduct for candidates issued by Election Commission whereby it is provided that—
“Federal and Provincial Ministers, Ministers of State, Advisors and Chairmen of Standing Committees will not use Government vehicles in their own election campaigns or election campaigns of any other candidates. They will neither hoist national or party flags on their vehicles nor use any other Government resources during election campaign and will not announce any development projects. The members of the National Assembly, Provincial Assembly or Senate will not display on their vehicles any plate showing their identity as members of National, Provincial Assemblies or the Senate”
3. It is, therefore, hoped that the candidates will strictly follow the provisions of Code of Conduct. Any violation of Code of Conduct will not be ignored and those responsible for violation will render themselves liable for action in accordance with law.