Lahore, The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has issued a report demanding an independent audit of the 2024 elections, questioning their integrity and credibility. The report highlights issues including a nationwide shutdown of internet and cellular services on polling day, arbitrary changes in polling information, and delayed announcement of results, which collectively compromised voter access and the transparency of the electoral process.

According to Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, observations from 51 constituencies revealed that while the polling process was largely transparent and peaceful, significant concerns arose post-polling. Issues such as the failure of presiding officers to publicly display the count or to transmit results properly, discrepancies between announced and actual counts, and restrictions on candidates and observers’ access to provisional result consolidations were particularly troubling. These practices raised questions about the overall management and outcome integrity of the elections.

The HRCP recommends that the elections undergo an independent audit under parliamentary supervision, without interference from security and intelligence agencies. It also calls for a parliamentary debate on the caretaker government scheme and insists on uninterrupted cellular and internet services on future polling days. Additionally, the commission urges the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to adhere strictly to the Elections Act 2017 by publishing all relevant forms and to consider recounts in closely contested races or where rejected ballots could affect the outcome.

The report criticizes not only the ECP’s handling of the election but also the influence of “extra-democratic quarters” and questionable decisions by the caretaker government. HRCP’s findings underscore the need for a collective effort to uphold democratic principles, the rule of law, and the aspirations of the Pakistani people, all of which were undermined in the 2024 elections.