ISLAMABAD, July 30: Acting Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Justice Abdul Hameed Dogar has threatened to take severe action against candidates violating the code of conduct by using government machinery in election campaigns for the upcoming local body polls.

“The candidates should strictly follow the provisions of the code of conduct as any violation of the code will not be ignored and those responsible for violation will render themselves liable for action in accordance with law,” the CEC said in a statement issued here Saturday.

The CEC invited the attention of the candidates to clause 27 of the code which stated that the federal and provincial ministers, ministers of state, advisers and chairmen of parliamentary committees would not use government vehicles in their own election campaigns or those of other candidates.

The code of conduct also required from them not to hoist national or party flags on their vehicles or use government resources during election campaigns and not to announce any development projects in their constituencies.

They are also required not to display on their vehicles any plate showing their identity as members of the National or provincial assemblies or the Senate.

On Thursday last the commission set up a special complaint cell in its secretariat to receive complaints about violation of the code. Recently the National Assembly Standing Committee on Local Government showed concern over reports that government machinery was being used during the election campaign by some candidates.