ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) reviewed on Friday arrangements for the third phase of local government elections in Punjab scheduled to be held on Dec 5 and expressed the confidence that the final phase would be well-organised and more systematic.

A meeting held here with Chief Election Commissioner retired Justice Sardar Mohammad Raza Khan in the chair discussed printing of ballot papers, training of polling staff, logistics and security.

Provincial election commissioner of Punjab, home secretary and inspector general of police, DROs of all the 12 districts where elections will be held and senior officers of the ECP attended the meeting.

The provincial election commissioner briefed the meeting about details of polling stations and polling booths, number of contesting candidates for each category and wards, polling staff, requirement of army and Rangers personnel and other security arrangements as well as printing and transportation of ballot papers.

The home secretary and IG police told the meeting about security arrangements and preventive measures.

The meeting was informed that there would be zero tolerance on the violation of the code of conduct set for the election. Under Section 144 of the CrPC there would be a ban on the assembly of more than five people in 300-metre radius of polling stations and there would be a ban on rallies to celebrate the victory after announcement of results.

It was also informed about the details of surety bonds.

The meeting was told that 44 companies of police and eight companies of Rangers would serve as quick response force in case of any emergency.

The district returning officers (DROs) spoke about arrangements in their respective districts.

The 12 districts of Punjab where local government elections are being held in the third phase are: Rawalpindi, Multan, Bahawalpur, Sialkot, Jhang, Narowal, Rahimyar Khan, Khushab, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Muzaffargarh and Layyah.

Published in Dawn, November 28th, 2015