In a significant move to ensure a fair and secure electoral process, Sindh's Caretaker Interior Minister Haris Nawaz declared on Wednesday ban on the display of weapons during elections.
Addressing the media in Karachi, Nawaz highlighted the responsibility of the Election Commission to oversee the elections, asserting the government's commitment to providing full support in maintaining law and order.
During a meeting between provincial officials and Election Commission representatives, efforts were made to address concerns across various departments.
Minister Nawaz emphasised the need for a foolproof system, backed by ample funds, to eliminate any hurdles in the electoral process. He revealed that Chief Minister funds had been allocated to the police, rangers, and schools to ensure adequate resources.
Polling stations and security personnel
With 5,954 normal polling stations and over 12,000 sensitive and highly sensitive polling stations, Minister Nawaz outlined a comprehensive security plan.
A total of 122,000 security personnel, including police and rangers, will be deployed outside polling stations. Only authorized polling staff will be allowed inside, with the option to call in additional support from the Rangers if necessary.
Highlighting the collaboration with various departments, Minister Nawaz disclosed that 1,984 soldiers from the Pakistan Army, along with personnel from the anti-corruption, forest department, FC, and lady health workers, will contribute to the security efforts.
He stressed the existence of security threats and announced measures to avoid the deployment of private security personnel.
In a bid to enhance transparency, Minister Nawaz shared plans to install cameras at 4,500 sensitive polling stations, emphasizing that security personnel would not enter polling booth rooms. Furthermore, he expressed a commitment to sustainable practices by installing solar power at these locations.
