Not posting retired officers as DROs, ROs: ECP

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) Monday vehemently declared all reports regarding appointment of retired officers as District Returning Officers (DROs) and Returning Officers (ROs) as baseless and contrary to the facts.

The ECP Media Coordination and Outreach Wing, in a statement, maintained that the commission is yet to take any such decision.

“All media reports regarding the appointment of District Returning Officers/ Returning Officers are baseless and contrary to the facts. The media ran misleading news about the appointment of retired officers as District Returning Officers/ Returning Officers. The commission is yet to take any such decision,” the ECP spokesperson said.

He explained the ECP has repeatedly written letters to the Provincial Election Commissioners for lists for appointment of District Returning Officers/Returning Officers so that updated lists can be prepared. This is an ongoing process in which the ECP considers the appointment of DROs and ROs very important to ensure free, fair and impartial general elections.

“It is being looked at from different angles so that the general elections are fair and transparent. The Election Commission is well aware of all its constitutional responsibilities,” the Election Commission said.

PTI Secretary General Omar Ayub, through a message on his social media account, X, had alleged that the Election Commission was appointing retired officers for pre-poll rigging.