In its initial assessment of Pakistan’s general election in 2024. Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) disclosed that an estimated 50 million voters actively participated in the voting process. Conducted on February 8. Resulting in a recorded Voters Turnout of 48 percent.
FAFEN Chairperson Mossarat Qadeem, during a briefing session. Commended the Election Commission for its successful management of the election amidst a two-year period marked by significant polarization. She underscored the achievement of the commission in conducting the election smoothly despite facing criticism from various political factions.
Qadeem highlighted the pivotal role of the election in closing the chapter of uncertainty and urged. Political parties to shoulder the responsibility of ensuring stability in the country post-election. Additionally, she called upon the Election Commission to promptly address any concerns or reservations raised by political parties and candidates. Regarding the election results, emphasizing the importance of resolving such issues in a timely manner.
FAFEN deployed a total of 5,664 observers across the country to monitor the electoral process. While the transparency of the election was maintained up to the polling stations. Potential concerns were raised regarding the transparency of the offices of the returning officers (ROs). Where questions about procedural fairness may arise.
The report highlighted that at 28 percent of polling stations, presiding officers did not provide Form 45 copies to observers and restricted their access to RO offices. Additionally, in 25 constituencies, the number of rejected votes exceeded the margin between winning candidates, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. Despite these challenges, only twelve women secured victory in the election, while eight independent candidates succeeded without any party affiliations.
Furthermore, the report indicated that while the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) maintained its voter support, both the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) experienced a surge in their vote banks. However, irregularities such as the absence of Form 45 copies at 29 percent of polling stations and disruptions caused by mobile phone and internet shutdowns impacted Voters Turnout. Nevertheless, political parties participated in the election despite concerns about fairness and incidents of terrorism, demonstrating their commitment to the democratic process.
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