ISLAMABAD, July 12: The Election Commission of Pakistan has taken measures to ensure transparency in by-elections in the NA-59 and NA-229 constituencies and made arrangements to hold these elections in a fair, free and impartial atmosphere.

This was stated by Secretary Election Commission of Pakistan Hasan Muhammad while briefing newsmen here on Monday. He said that so far the commission has not received any complaint from any party including the MMA, about the alleged use of official resources in these by-elections.

He said the Election Commission has taken notice of the news reports published in a section of press regarding use of official resources in the by-elections of these two constituencies and has pointed out to the 'concerned quarters' in this regard.

The Secretary Election Commission said the campaign in these two constituencies will start after the withdrawal of the nomination papers, therefore, so far at this primary stage, there is no violation of any rule and regulation.

He said there is no restriction on Prime Minister, Chief Minister or any other minister to participate in the campaign of any candidate therefore, their support for Shaukat Aziz, a PML candidate is not illegal.

Replying to a question about the issue of resignation for Shaukat Aziz, the Finance Minister to contest election, Hasan Muhammad said the Election Commission has already explained this point and added that after the revival of 1973 constitution, the condition has become inoperative.

He said the EC has already issued a notification on July 8, 2004 to explain this point. According to the notification, the Election Commission clarified that after the revival of the constitution on 31st December, 2002 the law which governs the conduct of elections is the Constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Conduct of General Elections Order, 2002, and the Representation of the People Act, 1976.

The notification further stated that in consequence thereof, the Election Commission's notification No. F.2(1)/2002-Cord, dated 13 August, 2002 has become inoperative. -APP