Ahead of the February 8 elections in Pakistan, the Sindh High Court (SHC) has mandated the removal of all political banners within the city.
Justice Nadeem Akhtar, in his directive, has instructed the authorities to dismantle all billboards and hoardings, demanding a compliance report to be submitted by January 31.
According to reports, the high court directed, “Take action if concerned officer shows hesitance,” and emphasized that “If police officials found supporting them, also register cases against them.” Justice Akhtar expressed concern, stating, “What you are teaching to the new entrants in the city, is it the place of civilized people or a jungle.”
The court further remarked, “Avoid turning this city into a jungle; fulfill your responsibility.”
Simultaneously, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has instructed political parties to ensure “mandatory” representation of five percent women candidates on general seats, as reported by Pakistan-based Geo News. In an order released on Sunday, the ECP directed political parties to submit a list of both male and female candidates for general seats within five days. Geo News reported that the electoral watchdog has concluded the crucial phase of allotting electoral symbols to registered political parties.
The general elections in Pakistan are scheduled to take place on February 8, 2024.
