ECP issues code of conduct, imposes transfer ban ahead of by-elections

LAHORE: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has issued two major notifications ahead of the upcoming by-elections, unveiling a comprehensive Code of Conduct for political parties, contesting candidates, election agents and polling agents, while simultaneously prohibiting transfers, postings and the announcement of development schemes in constituencies where polls are scheduled. According to the notifications, released under Article 218(3) of the Constitution and relevant provisions of the Elections Act 2017, the code will govern bye-elections in PP-115 (Faisalabad-XVIII), PP-116 (Faisalabad-XIX) and PP-269 (Muzaffargarh-II). The commission directed all political entities and their representatives to strictly follow the prescribed ethical and procedural framework to ensure a transparent, peaceful and credible electoral process.

The ECP emphasised that all parties and candidates must uphold the rights and freedoms of citizens guaranteed by the Constitution and refrain from actions prejudicial to the ideology, sovereignty or security of Pakistan. It warned that any attempt to ridicule or malign the judiciary, the armed forces or the Commission itself would invite punitive action under Section 10 of the Elections Act. Offering gifts, inducements or gratifications to influence candidature or withdrawal was categorically defined as corrupt practice, while parties were reminded to ensure at least five per cent representation of women candidates on general seats in line with statutory requirements.

The code also bans the display and carriage of weapons at public meetings, processions and polling stations, except by authorised security personnel with valid licenses.

All rallies and processions are to be held only at pre-approved venues and through routes agreed upon with local administrations. Organisers must ensure that processions do not obstruct traffic or disrupt public order. The use of effigies, burning of flags or any act likely to provoke violence has been prohibited, and car rallies have been disallowed to maintain law and order.

On polling day, campaigning or canvassing within 400 metres of a polling station will be banned, and no signs or banners seeking votes for any candidate may be displayed within 100 metres of polling premises. Polling agents must carry official identification, respect female voters and avoid interfering with polling officers or influencing voters in any manner.

District Returning Officers, Returning Officers and District Monitoring Officers have been tasked with enforcing the code through local administrations and law-enforcement agencies.

In a separate directive, the Commission barred all government authorities from posting or transferring officers in NA-18 (Haripur) until the announcement of results. It further prohibited any government functionary, elected representative or local government official from announcing or initiating new development schemes in the constituency until November 23, 2025.