The Fair and Free Election Network (Fafen) has called on the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to address non-compliance by Returning Officers (ROs) with legal provisions for transparent election result processes.

In a statement today, Fafen said despite generally smooth voting and counting processes, ROs in 135 constituencies did not follow regulations, hindering transparency efforts.

“This included restricting Fafen observers from monitoring tabulation proceedings in 65 constituencies and opening tamper-evident bags without candidate or agent presence in 42 constituencies,” it said.

“Furthermore, ROs in 53 constituencies failed to ensure proper correction of arithmetic errors in Form-45, as required by Election Rules, 2017.”

The statement added that inadequate arrangements at tabulation centres, leading to chaotic environments, were observed in 66 constituencies whereas the logistical challenge of meeting the 2am deadline for delivering results compounded the issue, particularly in geographically large constituencies.

“Only four constituencies managed to prepare complete provisional results by the legally stipulated time of 2am,” it said.

“While acknowledging the need for potential reforms to the Elections Act, 2017, considering operational realities, Fafen emphasises the ECP’s responsibility to investigate non-compliance by ROs.”

Fafen highlighted that Section 55 of the Elections Act, 2017 grants the ECP authority to take action against election officials and public servants for such breaches.