*ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan has denied the impressionthat the security forces will be responsible for the submission of electionresults, saying that their role will be confined to security andmaintaining law and order at polling stations.*

ECP Secretary Babur Yaqub, speaking to media out the commission’s office onTuesday, said those candidates who have claimed to have received threats orhave security concerns should come forward, and those parties whocandidates are being picked up can also submit anonymous complaints.

Mr. Yaqub stated the decision to deploy the armed forces was made bypolitical parties, and that security forces have been deployed during pastelections as well but no objections were raised.

He also said that code of conduct has been developed under which thesubmission of result will not be carried out by the army or security forcesbut rather by the presiding officer. However, the security officer canreceive complaints by citizens against the election staff over any riggingor misconduct.

Expressing hope that turnout will be higher than previous elections andwill strengthen democracy, he maintained that the ECP has the soleauthority to conduct elections which cannot be handed over to any otherinstitution.

He further said that allegations of rigging and misconduct were raised bypoliticians in every era, and their staff comprises civilians who are welltrained to conduct elections being held under the Election Act.

He said that they supply of ballot papers to polling stations will commencesoon under the supervision of the army. Furthermore, this time around evenReturning Officers will be allowed to enter polling booths.

He said that there were security concerns during the elections and NationalCounter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) has provided them information which wasdiscussed in a meeting. The meeting also discussed perpetual threats byterrorists to target election candidates, party heads and other politicalpersonalities.