DURING the recent phase of pre-election campaigning, there was blatant misuse of governmental resources in Lahore by some of the candidates as they used the vehicles of the Lahore Electric Supply Company (Lesco) to install their own banners and posters. Also, some were seen using the vehicles for removing the promotional material of their opponents. This was not only unethical and illegal, but also insensitive and irresponsible, considering the plight of the electricity consumers, who, at the same time, were suffering power shutdowns due to maintenance issues.

Lesco maintenance vehicles are meant to be used for official purposes only, such as repairing and upgrading the power infrastructure, responding to emer-gencies, and ensuring smooth and uninterrupted supply of electricity to the people. They are not meant to be used for personal or political gains, especially at the expense of the public interest and wellbeing.

By diverting these vehicles from their intended use, the candidates not only violated the code of conduct for elections, but also deprived the people of their basic right to have access to electricity. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) should take notice of such violations before announcing the final results.

The candidates who indulged in any illegal activity clearly had no regard for the rule of law, the democratic process, or for the common good. As such, they are unfit to represent the people and to hold any public office.

The authorities concerned, especially the ECP, should take strict and urgent action against all such people and hold them accountable for their misdeeds.

M. Abid Hafeez
Lahore

Published in Dawn, February 11th, 2024