Commonwealth report says voting procedures complied with in LG polls
By Adnan Rafique

ISLAMABAD—A four-member Commonwealth team, which observed the local government elections, has expressed satisfaction that the voting procedures were largely complied with and the turnout in these elections nationally remained 46.96 percent in phase I and 48.75 per cent in phase II.
The 26-page report nowhere questions the integrity of the results of elections while also prominently noting that the media coverage of the election remained vigorous and unhindered.
“The voting procedures seemed to have been largely complied with,” observed the Commonwealth team, headed by Justice Anastasia Msosa of Malawi.
Very few complaints from agents of candidates were received, the report states, adding that voters’ complaints mostly related to confusion about the location of polling stations and difficulties in locating names on the voters’ register.
The fact-based report also pointed out some deficiencies and recommended steps, particularly related to training of polling officials in some remote parts and facilitation of women voters.
At the same time, the report also documents rapid response of the Election Commission to efforts by some interests to keep women out of the voting process.
For instance, the report states, in four districts of NWFP local male leaders had agreed that women should not stand for elections.
“These decisions were reversed following the CEC’s intervention and the period of nominations was extended,” it says.
The Commonwealth observers also note the political parties’ interference in support of particular candidates at some places. The recommendations contained in the report call for amendments in relevant laws for involvement of political parties in the future, strengthening of the Election Commission, making the future code of conduct binding upon candidates and steps for greater female participation.