In response to worries about violence shared by the United Nations before the general elections, the Foreign Office of Pakistan assured on Wednesday that the country has made security plans according to its electoral laws.
The statement, given by Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, came after the international human rights body expressed concerns about violent incidents across Pakistan before the crucial polls scheduled for tomorrow (February 8).
UN spokesperson Liz Throssell, in a statement on Tuesday, expressed concern about acts of violence against political parties and candidates, urging authorities to uphold the fundamental freedoms necessary for a fair and meaningful democratic process.
Throssell highlighted that there have been at least 24 incidents where armed groups targeted political parties and called on authorities to ensure a fully free and fair vote, recommitting to the democratic process and an environment that protects a range of rights.
In response to the UN, Baloch stated, “Pakistan is fully committed to fostering an inclusive democratic process, upholding the rule of law and protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms guaranteed in its laws and Constitution.”
🔊 Statement by the Spokesperson on the remarks of UN OHCHR regarding the upcoming general elections in Pakistan
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) February 7, 2024
🔗⬇️https://t.co/YxTHYuXhY3 pic.twitter.com/0GDEjBGn9V
She mentioned that security plans have been finalized for the February 8 polls and that Pakistan’s judicial system ensures fair trial and due process. Baloch also emphasized that domestic legal remedies are available in case of complaints in the electoral process.
The upcoming general elections have seen an increase in violence, with attacks targeting candidates and election activities of various political parties. Parties such as PTI, PPP, NP, JUI-F, ANP, and PML-N have experienced attacks. The ECP postponed elections in NA-8 and PK-22 after an independent candidate was killed. Clashes between political parties and police have also occurred, leading to injuries and fatalities.