Around 53,000 observers to monitor July 25 elections

ISLAMABAD: As many as 53,000 international, national, local and media observers will monitor the upcoming general election scheduled to be held on July 25.

A European Union Election Observation Mission (EUEOM) comprising around 100 observers is scheduled to monitor the election process.

The mandate of the EUEOM is to observe all aspects of the electoral process and assess the extent to which the elections are in compliance with the laws of Pakistan, as well as with international and regional commitments for democratic elections to which Pakistan is a signatory.

The mission had received accreditation for its long-term observers, allowing for their deployment in the coming days. Soon after the election day, the mission will issue a preliminary statement.

The mission will stay in Pakistan until September to compile a comprehensive final report including recommendations for future electoral processes, will be published approximately two months later.

The main objectives of EU Election Observation are to support the democratic process in partner countries, enhance public confidence in the electoral process and strengthen respect for human rights and rule of law.

Besides this around 400 international observers from various countries will also monitor the election process.

Around 50,000 national, local observers have also been issued accreditation cards to monitor the election process, while 30,000 media personnel across the country will also visit the polling stations to observe the process.

Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) will monitor the election process in 85 per cent of total polling stations to be set up by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for elections.