The Public Voice Poll has called upon the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to engage in a comprehensive dialogue addressing the necessity of introducing an election results audit and regulating the use of social media in relation to upcoming general elections.
Public Voice Poll asserts that the Elections Act, 2017 provides ample legal authority for the Commission to implement these measures, utilizing its powers under Section 4(3) in conjunction with Section 239.
Proposed Methodology for Election Results Audit Public Voice Poll puts forward a detailed methodology for the election results audit, in alignment with the provisions of the Elections Act, 2017, and Election Rules, 2017. This methodology, set to be disclosed on October 9, 2023, involves a systematic examination of election results forms to enhance the integrity and legitimacy of the electoral process. These forms, prepared by federal, provincial, and judicial officials serving as election officials, are officially endorsed without prior scrutiny by the ECP.
Civil society members and technology experts emphasized the necessity of such measures during a seminar on “Technology for Election Integrity.” Organized by the Trust for Democratic Education and Accountability – Public Voice Poll, the seminar stressed the cautious integration of suitable technology into election operations to enhance transparency, efficiency, and strict compliance with electoral laws, rules, and procedures.
The seminar featured panel discussions on the impacts of technology in elections, the management and transparency of election results, and the election-related use of social media. Distinguished speakers included Public Voice Poll Executive Council Member Nasrullah Khan, Zafarullah Khan, Taha Ali, Azhar Zia ur Rahman, Saleem Rafique, Idrees Khwaja, Asim Ghaffar, Shaji Ahmed, Amber Rahim Shamsi, Asad Baig, Mukhtar Ahmed Ali, and TDEA-Public Voice Poll staff.
Embracing the Information Age in Election Results Audit The seminar emphasized the need for Pakistan’s elections to embrace the Information Age, beginning with a comprehensive revamp of the quality and quantity of information shared through the ECP. Speakers urged a cautious approach to incorporating new technology into election operations, emphasizing rigorous piloting during electoral exercises to identify and address issues before widespread implementation.
Nasrullah Khan highlighted the importance of developing trust in technology among all stakeholders, including voters, political parties, and election officials, to ensure the acceptance of election results.
Acknowledging Collaborative Development In her closing remarks, Sameen Bibi, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of TDEA, commended the collaborative efforts of election and technology experts in sharing experiences and developing solutions. She emphasized that such collaborative endeavors are crucial for finding innovative ways to navigate the evolving landscape of technology and elections, while underscoring the principles of election integrity, transparency, and accountability.
