GUJRAT: The Election Commission of Pakistan has allowed the candidates contesting the by-polls to hire two security guards from any approved private security company during their election campaigns, keeping curbs on exhibition of weapons or violation of code of conduct intact.

The ECP directions were communicated to the candidates (and their representatives) who are contesting the by-polls in NA-69 (Gujrat) by Deputy Commissioner Tauseef Dilshad Khatana, who is also the district monitoring officer, at a meeting held at the District Complex here on Thursday.

Acting District Police Officer Dr Moeen Masood was also present.

The meeting participants were told that there is a complete ban on display of Panaflexes and hoardings. However, other publicity material such as banners, posters, handbills and pamphlets could be used as per the prescribed size mentioned in the ECP code of conduct.

The candidates were also warned of strict legal action, including fine and disqualification reference, in case of any serious violation of the ECP code.

The candidates were told that no rallies could be taken out as different monitoring teams for the inspection of their campaigns had already been made functional.

Published in Dawn, October 5th, 2018