ECP appoints 17 officers to monitor Islamabad local elections

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has appointed 17 officers, including a District Monitoring Officer (DMO), to monitor compliance with the code of conduct during the December 20 local government elections in Islamabad. According to a notification issued on Wednesday, Additional Deputy Commissioner Uzair Ali Khan has been appointed as the DMO, while 16 other officers have been assigned monitoring responsibilities across different groups of union councils in the federal capital. The monitoring officers will oversee electoral activities in their respective areas, identify violations of the code of conduct and report them to the DMO. The ECP has also issued terms of reference (ToRs) for the DMO and monitoring officers, requiring them to take an oath under Section 56 of the Elections Act before assuming their responsibilities. Under the guidelines, monitoring teams will obtain information from the district administration regarding public meetings, rallies and other political activities. The district administration and relevant authorities will be required to provide necessary information and assistance. Any violation of the code of conduct will be reported to the DMO through Form M-1 along with supporting evidence. The local administration will appoint a Grade 17 or above officer as a focal person, while police authorities will ensure security for the monitoring teams. The DMO will maintain a record of complaints received through Form M-2 and submit daily reports to the ECP. The monitoring teams will oversee pre-election activities, polling-day proceedings and post-election developments to ensure compliance with electoral regulations. The DMO will also be authorised to issue directions to relevant authorities in connection with monitoring responsibilities. Polling for Islamabad's local government elections is scheduled for December 20.