ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has enacted an amendment to its Elections Act that restricts the presence of security forces inside polling stations, a move aimed at reducing voter intimidation. The amendment, part of the Elections (Second Amendment) Act 2023, mandates that law enforcement officials remain outside polling stations unless an emergency situation arises, at which point they can be summoned by the Presiding Officer.
According to Free and Fair Election Network, the recent changes to the law address concerns that have been raised repeatedly in Pakistan’s electoral history regarding the impact of uniformed security forces on voter turnout and behavior. The presence of such personnel has been particularly intimidating for women voters in conservative areas, where cultural norms heighten the perceived scrutiny.
The amendment modifies Section 83(4) of the Elections Act 2017, reinforcing that law enforcement officials are to assist the Presiding Officer in maintaining order and ensuring uninterrupted voting, but are to do so from outside the polling venue. The decision to allow security personnel inside rests solely with the Presiding Officer in the case of an emergency.
This legislative change underscores the country’s commitment to free and fair elections by addressing structural issues that have previously hindered voter participation. The public is advised that any unauthorized presence of security forces inside polling stations contradicts current legal provisions.