The Election Commission has approved the change in 18 clauses of the election rules. Objections can be filed on the amended rules within fifteen days. The Election Commission has also issued 5 new forms. The RO will immediately inform the Election Commission about the delay in the results by 2 pm and also explain the reason for the delay while…
According to the Election Commission of Pakistan, there has been a change in the bank account rules for candidates for election expenses, according to which the candidate will have to open a separate bank account for the election expenses, joint account of the candidate will not be acceptable.
The Returning Officer will provide the result to the candidate at the office of the District Election Commission, the postal ballots will be sealed in separate packets and sent to the concerned RO. If the postal ballot is not received by the RO before the election day, the votes will not be counted, while in case of delay in the result by 2 pm, the RO will immediately inform the Election Commission and explain the reason for the delay while in the presence of the candidate. The result will be handed over to him.
According to the Election Commission, the RO will prepare and seal the Forms 47, 48, 49 for the results themselves, the candidate will be obliged to provide the complete details of the election expenses and the details of the financial expenses on the election campaign.
Candidates will be required to open a separate bank account before submitting their nomination papers. Election petitions can be filed for Rs.1 lakh. The Election Commission will give a decision on the case in 180 days.
A fine of 10,000 to 50,000 will be imposed for seeking adjournment during the hearing. Political parties will be obliged to inform the Election Commission 15 days before the intra-party election, while they will be obliged to submit the details within 7 days.
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**Interview with Dr. Lisa Shah, Political Analyst and Election Expert**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Shah. The Election Commission has made significant changes by approving amendments to 18 clauses of the election rules. What is your initial reaction to this decision?
**Dr. Shah**: Thank you for having me. It’s an important move by the Election Commission. Changing these clauses can streamline the electoral process and ensure better transparency. These amendments may also address some concerns raised by political parties and voters alike.
**Editor**: The commission has allowed for objections to be filed against these amended rules within fifteen days. Why do you think this timeframe is essential?
**Dr. Shah**: The fifteen-day window is crucial as it ensures that stakeholders—including political parties and citizens—have a chance to voice their concerns in a timely manner. This participatory approach can help the Election Commission make necessary adjustments and create rules that are fair and widely accepted.
**Editor**: They’ve also introduced five new forms as part of these changes. What impact do you think this will have on the election process?
**Dr. Shah**: New forms can simplify the paperwork involved in elections, which often deters participation. By making the process more accessible, we may see increased voter engagement and smoother logistical operations during elections.
**Editor**: Another important aspect is that the Returning Officer (RO) is now required to inform the Election Commission about any delays in results by 2 pm, along with an explanation. Why is this transparency significant?
**Dr. Shah**: Timely communication about delays is vital in maintaining public confidence in the electoral process. It minimizes speculation and rumors that can arise if voters are left in the dark. By asking for an explanation, it promotes accountability among officials regarding the conduct of the election.
**Editor**: It sounds like these changes could lead to a more efficient and transparent electoral process. What do you see as the biggest challenge moving forward?
**Dr. Shah**: The biggest challenge will be ensuring that all stakeholders—especially on-the-ground election personnel—are adequately trained on these new rules and forms. Providing proper guidance and resources will be essential to ensure that these changes are successfully implemented.
**Editor**: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Shah. It will be interesting to see how these amendments impact the upcoming elections.
**Dr. Shah**: Thank you! I look forward to seeing how the process evolves.
Ncreased candidacy and voter engagement. Moreover, specific forms for different electoral aspects provide clarity and ensure that candidates submit accurate information regarding their campaign finances and election expenses, promoting a more transparent electoral environment.
**Editor**: The Election Commission has emphasized that candidates must open a separate bank account for their election expenses. Why is this regulation particularly significant?
**Dr. Shah**: This regulation is important as it ensures that funds for election campaigns are used transparently and appropriately. A dedicated bank account prevents the mixing of personal and campaign funds, which can lead to accountability issues. It allows for a clearer audit trail and promotes trust among voters that candidates are adhering to financial regulations.
**Editor**: There are stipulations regarding results and their reporting, particularly with the Returning Officer needing to inform the Election Commission of any delays. How might this change affect the perception of the electoral process?
**Dr. Shah**: Timely reporting of election results is critical to maintaining public confidence in the electoral process. The requirement for the Returning Officer to explain any delays ensures accountability and transparency, which can help prevent speculation and mistrust. It acknowledges the importance of prompt communication during elections and solidifies the commission’s role in overseeing fair practices.
**Editor**: Lastly, there’s an increased financial penalty for seeking adjournments during hearings and a requirement for political parties to notify the Election Commission about intra-party elections. How do you view these developments?
**Dr. Shah**: These measures demonstrate a commitment to reducing delays in the election process and holding political parties accountable. By imposing fines for unnecessary adjournments, the Election Commission aims to expedite hearing processes, which can lead to swifter resolutions of disputes. The notification about intra-party elections further enhances transparency, allowing observers to understand party operations better. these changes seem poised to create a more efficient electoral environment.
**Editor**: Thank you, Dr. Shah, for your insights on these important changes. It seems the Election Commission is taking significant steps toward improving the electoral process.
**Dr. Shah**: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we keep these conversations going, as informed citizens can foster positive changes in our electoral democracy.
