ECP asks for army, paramilitary for NA-18 after KP CM’s ‘threats’ claim
“ECP asks the defence and interior ministries to post army and civil armed forces for NA-18 by-polls after KP CM Sohail Afridi’s fiery speech.”
Key points
- ECP asks the defence and interior ministries to post army and civil armed forces for NA-18 by-polls after KP CM Sohail Afridi’s fiery speech.
- The commission says the step is necessary to protect officials and voters and guarantee a fair vote.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has formally asked the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Interior to deploy the army and civil armed forces during the NA-18 by-election, citing what it called threatening remarks by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi.
In letters to both ministries, the electoral body drew attention to the chief minister’s recent speech at a rally in Havelian. The ECP said Afridi used provocative language and issued warnings that could intimidate officials and voters, potentially hindering their duties on polling day.
Afridi, addressing supporters in Haripur ahead of the November 23 vote, urged backing for his party and warned the local administration against any attempt to manipulate results. He alleged some political actors had already “changed their votes” and cautioned that tampering with the mandate would have consequences. He hinted at a single remaining “option” without elaborating.
The commission said the request for military and paramilitary deployment is meant to ensure a secure environment for voters and staff, and to uphold impartial administration of the by-polls.
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