ECP summons secretary finance over non-provision of election funds

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has summoned Secretary of Finance over the non-provision of funds required for the upcoming general elections.

This action comes in response to the Finance Ministry’s failure to release the allocated funds outlined in the budget.

Expressing concern over the delay in providing the necessary funds, the Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja has decided to inform the caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar about the situation.

A detailed letter outlining the circumstances will be dispatched to the Prime Minister today.

In the current financial year’s budget, a total of 42 billion rupees have been earmarked for the general elections. However, the Finance Ministry has thus far released only Rs 10 billion, withholding the remaining amount without offering any justification, as per sources.

The Election Commission urgently requires 17 billion rupees to conduct the general elections scheduled for February 8, sources reveal.

Despite repeated attempts to secure the funds, the Finance Ministry has not provided a positive response.

A written reminder has been sent to the Ministry of Finance, emphasizing the immediate provision of the required amount, but as of now, no favorable response has been received.

This situation raises concerns about the timely and smooth conduct of the upcoming general elections.