Security concerns loom as Pakistan’s general elections begin

Updated on February 27, 2024

Today, the people of Pakistan have started casting their votes as nationwide polling commenced at 8am this morning. Over 128 million registered voters will have their say in today’s much-awaited general elections that will elect the 16th legislative assembly in the centre.

Key details of the general elections

People will be casting their votes at 90,675 polling stations for a total of 5,121 candidates contesting for the 266 seats of the constituent assembly. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has reported that there are 128 million registered voters in the country.

Historical perspective

Security concerns loom as Pakistan

The last polls were held in July 2018, in which Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) secured majority seats and formed the government in the centre led by Imran Khan.

Security measures in place

Out of the total 90,675 polling stations, 46,065 have been labelled as sensitive and 18,437 others as highly sensitive. The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja has directed the chief secretaries and inspectors general of police (IGPs) of the four provinces to keep security on high alert to ensure the security of voters.

Response to recent incidents

Authorities have vowed all arrangements for peaceful elections, just hours after deadly blasts rocked Balochistan, killing nearly 30 people and injuring dozens of others. The CEC has assured the chief secretary and IG police Balochistan of support if needed.

Final thoughts

These general elections are a crucial moment for the people of Pakistan as they exercise their democratic right to vote. The authorities are working tirelessly to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted electoral process, with a focus on security and efficiency. The outcome of these elections will shape the future of the country and its governance.