Omar Hamid Khan, the Secretary of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), recently chaired an Inter-Ministerial meeting at the Election Commission Secretariat in Islamabad. The purpose of this meeting was to assess preparations for the upcoming General Elections and to extend invitations to international observers.
“The commission has an open-door policy, inviting international observers from around the world to oversee Pakistan’s elections,” emphasized the Election Commission Secretary, Omar Hamid Khan. As part of this commitment, he directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to expedite the visa process for international observers within one week, ensuring their swift arrival in Pakistan.
Khan also issued directives to the Ministry of Interior and other relevant organizations, mandating the assurance of international observers’ safety and the resolution of all security-related matters within a two-week timeframe.
To further facilitate the international observers, the Federal Board of Revenue was entrusted with the task of exempting them, including media representatives, from customs duties for their equipment and essentials, while also providing necessary support. An Action Committee was established to oversee these efforts, with a responsibility to report on progress every 15 days.
The meeting witnessed the participation of prominent figures, including Special Secretary Dr. Syed Asif Hussain, Zafar Iqbal Hussain, and other senior officers. Notably, senior officers from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Federal Board of Revenue, and other related institutions also contributed to the discussions.
In addition to this, the Joint Election Commissioners representing the four provinces were active in their roles as focal points for the international observers. Their participation emphasized the seriousness with which Pakistan is preparing for the upcoming elections.