FAFEN declares 2021 by-elections better than 2018 GE, despite NA-75 violence

FAFEN declares 2021 by-elections better than 2018 GE, despite NA-75 violence

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - A report released by the Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN), an election fairness watchdog, says that despite the violent incidents in NA-75, the recent by-elections were better than the 2018 general elections.

In its report, FAFEN has expressed satisfaction with improvements in the polling and counting process of the by-elections held across the country from February 16 to 21.

However, the report said that during the by-elections, there were violations of coronavirus SOPS, illegal election campaigns and other general violations. It also suggested improving administrative matters outside polling stations in NA-75.

The FAFEN report said that government officials who obstruct transparent elections should be fined and given severe punishments. The Election Commission may hold re-elections at the polling stations with delayed results.

It further said that permitting parties to set up camps near 71% of polling stations was a violation of the code of conduct. Several polling booths were set up in one room during the election, causing unnecessary crowding.

FAFEN said that except for NA-75, none of the 8 constituencies had any irregularities in the counting of votes. ECP had to withhold the results of NA-75 because of observed irregularities.