Chief Election Commissioner Gilgit-Baltistan Raja Shahbaz Khan announced on Thursday that all necessary arrangements have been finalized for the upcoming general elections in Gilgit-Baltistan. He emphasized that the Election Commission's top priority is to ensure peaceful, free, fair, and transparent elections.
Press Conference Highlights
Addressing a press conference in Gilgit, the Chief Election Commissioner stated that elections are a national responsibility and a trust of the people, which must be delivered honestly to their genuine representatives. He reaffirmed that the electoral data issued on April 10 was accurate and would serve as the basis for the electoral process.
Call to Ignore Rumors
Raja Shahbaz Khan urged the public not to pay attention to rumors and baseless propaganda and instead rely on verified facts. He said that anyone having concerns or complaints regarding the electoral process should approach the Election Commission through the prescribed legal channels, assuring that all legitimate grievances would be addressed.
Strict Action Against Disruptions
He warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt law and order or sabotage the election process. No individual, he said, would be allowed to create unrest during the elections.
Voter Rights and Equal Opportunities
The Chief Election Commissioner maintained that every voter has the constitutional right to cast their vote freely and that equal opportunities have been provided to all citizens to exercise their democratic rights. He added that no person had been arrested or harassed without legal justification.
Political Campaigns and NOCs
Referring to political leaders visiting Gilgit-Baltistan for election campaigns, Raja Shahbaz Khan said that all prominent personalities had obtained the required No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and were carrying out their political activities in accordance with prescribed conditions. He added that certain elements were unnecessarily trying to create a conspiratorial atmosphere, which was not in anyone's interest.
Tangir Incident Inquiry
Commenting on the recent Tangir incident, he said that an inquiry was underway and that action would be taken against those responsible once investigations were completed.
Code of Conduct for Government Employees
The Chief Election Commissioner further stated that any government employee found violating the election code of conduct by engaging in political activities would face immediate legal action. Similarly, any government vehicle used illegally for election-related purposes would be taken into custody.
Security Arrangements
He praised Gilgit-Baltistan Police as a brave, professional and dedicated force, noting that additional personnel had been deployed from other areas due to limited local manpower. He said the sole objective was to ensure the safety of citizens and maintain a peaceful environment during the elections.
Commitment to Transparent Elections
Raja Shahbaz Khan reiterated that the Election Commission, in coordination with all relevant institutions, was fully committed to conducting transparent, free and peaceful elections across Gilgit-Baltistan. Provincial Election Commissioner Abid Raza was also present on the occasion.
