FAFEN shows concern over delay in announcement of election results

Terming the general elections held in the country on February 8 a good omen for democracy, the Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) has, however, shown its concern over delay in the announcement of some election results, saying this has raised questions over the credibility of the exercise, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Saturday.    

In its initial review report, the organization has noted with concern that the suspension of mobile phone service on the election day resulted in a delay in the compilation of results. 

It has urged the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to make public the information about the postal ballot.

The FAFEN has also asked the election commission to take notice of the ‘irregularities’ committed during the polling.

It has said it is encouraging that over 50 million people cast their votes in the elections.

“All major political parties managed to keep their vote bank intact. As a matter of fact, the vote bank of PML-N, PPP and the TLP increased,” the organization said, adding, “There were eight independent candidates who were returned to the assemblies without the support of any political party.”

The FAFEN goes on to say that another plus point is that different political parties fielded 280 female candidates from different constituencies. “As many as 12 women emerged victorious on general seats.”

 “The fact that political parties were given an equal opportunity to run their election campaigns is heartening. “The uncertainty gripping the country is now over,” it said, adding, “Now it is the duty of political parties to ensure stability in the country.”