ECP Grants First-Class Magistrate Powers to POs

APP

Islamabad: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has authorized presiding officers (POs) with first-class magistrate powers to facilitate the effective conduct of the general elections in 2024.

“From February 7 to 9 during the upcoming general elections on February 8, all presiding officers will wield the authority of magistrates,” stated the ECP spokesperson to APP. The presiding officers are empowered to conduct immediate trials and can act under Sections 169, 171, and 174 of the Election Act.

The ECP had previously granted first-class magistrate powers to District Returning Officers (DROs) and Returning Officers (ROs) to ensure the smooth progression of the electoral process. “Magisterial powers were granted to DROs and ROs in compliance with Section 193 of the Election Act 2017,” the spokesperson added.

These magistrate powers will be applicable to ROs and DROs during the general elections for national and provincial assemblies in Punjab, Sindh, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan until the official announcement of the final election results for the candidates.