All set for Feb 8 balloting in Mardan, says official

TAKHTBHAI: District Election Commissioner, Mardan, Ziaul Rahim on Sunday said that all arrangements for the general elections scheduled for February 8th have been completed.

Addressing a workshop organised by NGOs Saiban and Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) here, he highlighted the importance of voting and adherence to ethical standards. Muhammad Arif, the chairman of Saiban, also spoke at the event.

Ziaul Rahim urged the public to cast their votes correctly as voters are the stakeholders who carry substantial responsibilities during elections.

He said the current population of Mardan district is 270,000, with arrangements completed for all polling stations, including three

seats for the National Assembly and eight seats for the provincial assembly. The presiding officer has

been granted the powers of a first-class magistrate on polling day.

ZiaulRahim highlighted the creation of a code of ethics for candidates, media, and the public. He said media representatives were required to carry an accreditation card issued by the administration during

coverage.

He specified that posting posters and banners within a certain distance of government offices or polling stations, and any violations by candidates or political parties, would result in penalties. Candidates are to set up their election camps at least 400 meters away.

He said violators of the code of ethics might face imprisonment for three months or a fine of up to Rs10,000.

He urged the public to ensure the proper use of their vote through democratic procedures and prevent their vote from being wasted.