ISLAMABAD – After coming under staunch criticism from different sides, theElection Commission of Pakistan in a fresh notification has limitedmagisterial powers of military personnel set to be deployed in and outsidethe polling stations in upcoming elections.
The ECP had issued a notification on July 10, giving extended powers to thearmed forces personnel to be deployed at polling stations across thecountry from July 23 to July 27 ‘for provision of secure environment toassist ECP in conduct of for free, fair and transparent manner.’
The appointment of 371,000 armed forces personnel in elections withmagisterial powers were criticised by and large while Senators also onSaturday expressed serious reservations over such powers.