ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Ccabinet approved deployment of Pakistan Army and civil armed forces troops for peaceful conduct of general elections on recommendation of Interior Ministry, statement from Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said.

These forces will perform duties at sensitive constituencies and polling stations and will also act as rapid response force, it added.  Decision was made during Cabinet meeting presided over by caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar. Discussions revolving around current economic, political and electoral situation in country also came under discussion during meeting. 

Election Commission of Pakistan had requested federal government for deployment of Army and civil armed forces personnel at polling stations during upcoming general elections on February 8.

Interior Secretary Aftab Akbar Durrani, invoked Article 220 of Constitution, emphasising duty of all executive authorities to support ECP in fulfilling its functions.

Later, during corps commanders conference held at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi with Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir in chair, top military brass said they would provide “Requisite and necessary” support to ECP for elections.

Meanwhile, interim Cabinet also held thorough discussion on proposals made regarding restructuring and digitisation of Federal Board of Revenue.

Interim PM directed establishment of an inter-ministerial committee under supervision of Finance Minister in light of opinions of Cabinet members regarding proposals presented for FBR reforms.

Published in The Daily National Courier, January, 24 2024

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