ECP asks foreign observers to be ‘impartial, objective’ during election coverage

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has issued a 14-point code of conduct for foreign observers in the upcoming general elections to be held on July 25.

According to rules issued by the ECP, no person would be permitted to observe election process unless he/she presents accreditation card issued by ECP or its authorized officer.

Officials are required to display their official identification badges issued by ECP and must present it to election officials and security officials when requested.

Observers bound to respect sovereignty of Pakistan as well fundamental rights and freedoms of its people.

Observers required to maintain good behavior, respect others including exhibiting sensitivity for culture and customs of the country and shall observe the highest level of professional conduct throughout their presence here.

Observers bound to adhere to the laws of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and respect the authority of ECP.

Observers are required to follow instructions issued by the ECP and state authorities including security officials and needed to maintain respectful attitude towards them.

Political impartiality shall be maintained by observers at all costs while observing the election process. They shall not exhibit any bias or preference with regard to local authorities, political parties and candidates as well as any issue related to the process of election, said the code of conduct.

Observers shall not conduct or participate in any activity that may generate an impression of favoring or opposing any political party or a candidate.

Observers will have right to ask any question and to clear any query but they will not obstruct directly or indirectly elections process.

Observers shall ensure that all their observations are impartial, objective and depict highest standard of accuracy.

An individual observer shall not make personal comments about his observation or conclusion on the election process to the media.

Observation organizations or groups are required to ensure that only their nominated persons give comments about the election process.