Polling has commenced nationwide for the 12th General Election 2024, running smoothly from 8 am to 5 pm with heightened security measures in place. A total of 17,816 candidates from various regions are vying for seats in 855 constituencies across national and provincial assemblies, with notable political figures joining the fray in some areas.
The Election Commission reports a voter count of 128,585,760, inclusive of 25-year-old newcomers totaling 23,518,371. Voters must present their original identity cards at polling stations, where they’ll cast green ballots for national assembly members and white ones for provincial assembly representatives.
Across the country, 90,675 polling stations have been set up, with 27,628 deemed sensitive and 18,437 highly sensitive. A deployment of 500,000 security personnel, backed by paramilitary forces and the Pakistan Army, ensures monitoring and swift response.
The delivery of polling materials, including ballot boxes and papers, was completed under police and law enforcement escort. The Election Commission emphasizes adherence to guidelines, particularly regarding Form 45, urging presiding officers to meticulously prepare and photograph it for submission to Returning Officers.
Provincial election commissioners have been directed to enforce a ban on electioneering within 400 meters of polling stations, with strict prohibitions on political advertising within 100 meters. Monitoring teams are tasked with ensuring compliance, and a helpline (051111327000) has been established for registering complaints, operational round the clock.