NA-245 bypolls: ECP to deploy army outside polling stations

KARACHI: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has decided to deploy the army outside the polling stations in the upcoming by-elections for NA-245 constituency.

The ECP has written a letter to the defence secretary seeking the deployment of the army to prevent any untoward situation due to the law and order situation.

The ECP asked to deploy the army from July 26 to 28. The polling for the by-elections is scheduled for July 27.

The seat fell vacant after the demise of PTI MNA and television personality Dr Aamir Liaquat Hussain.

PTI has also decided to contest the NA-245 election after boycotting the recently-held violence marred NA-240 by-polls in Karachi.

READ MORE: CEC requests COAS to ensure security for Sindh LG polls

CEC writes to CM Sindh

The Chief Election Commissioner has directed Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah to make adequate security arrangements for Sindh local bodies elections and NA-245 Karachi by-elections.

In a letter to the chief minister, CEC Sultan Raja has also directed to take action over the firing incident and violence in the recently held NA-240 elections in Karachi.

The CEC said strict action should be taken against those responsible for interference in polling and causing unrest.

The chief election commissioner also directed to ensure foolproof security in the upcoming NA-245 Karachi by-elections.

He said the Rangers and Pakistan Army can be deployed at sensitive polling stations if required to ensure law and order. He said all efforts should be made to ensure the polls are held in a conducive and peaceful manner.