Election Commission of Pakistan Rejects Allegations of Rigging and Manipulation by NGO

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has dismissed the allegations of election rigging, coercion, and fraud presented by the non-governmental organization (NGO) *Pattan Development Organization* in its report. The ECP labeled the claims as part of a conspiracy to malign national institutions.

In a statement, the ECP spokesperson expressed that the interview of a Pattan representative, aired on a private TV channel, and Pattan’s press release, were entirely baseless and contrary to facts. The spokesperson further clarified that all Form 46, 45, and 47 documents received from returning officers had been posted on the ECP’s website without any alterations, and these are still available. In addition, the affected parties have filed their election petitions in the election tribunals, where hearings are ongoing, and some tribunals have already issued rulings after considering the parties’ positions.

The spokesperson also confirmed that voter turnout data had been included in the ECP’s annual and post-election reports, which are being published in accordance with the law.

Regarding the issue of reserved seats for women and non-Muslims, the spokesperson stated that it would be inappropriate to comment, as the matter is under judicial review, and the ECP will make a decision in accordance with the Constitution and the law.

The ECP further urged that if anyone possesses evidence of electoral irregularities, it should be provided to the relevant candidates and affected parties so they can present it before the tribunals for appropriate legal action.

The spokesperson pointed out that such reports hold no significance until the ECP’s stance is taken into account. They emphasized that it would have been appropriate for the report to have sought the ECP’s viewpoint before being published, as the report was released without consulting the institution, indicating that it was part of a baseless and fabricated propaganda campaign.

The ECP reiterated that it would not be swayed by such tactics and would continue to fulfill its duties in accordance with the Constitution and the law.

*Pattan Development Organization’s report* had revealed the use of 64 new methods of manipulation, coercion, and fraud in the recent elections. The organization claimed that the unprecedented rigging during the general elections led to actions that distorted the framework and spirit of the Constitution. Additionally, the report alleged that the ECP continued to alter election result forms on its website until September 2024.