KP CM reviews election preparedness

F.P. Report

PESHAWAR: Caretaker Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Justice Retired Syed Arshad Hussain Shah, chaired a significant meeting in Abbottabad to assess the preparations for the upcoming general elections. The meeting, attended by top officials including Chief Secretary Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry and Inspector General of Police Akhtar Hayat Khan Gandapur, focused on reviewing security arrangements and overall readiness for the elections in Hazara Division.

During the briefing, it was highlighted that all necessary arrangements for the general elections have been completed across the districts of Hazara Division. A total of 2862 polling stations have been established, with 392 identified as highly sensitive, 982 as sensitive, and 1488 as normal. To ensure security, 14322 security personnel are required, and various departments have been engaged to address any shortage. Special preparations have been made for conducting elections in snow bound areas.

Expressing satisfaction with the preparations, CM Arshad Hussain Shah urged the administration to remain vigilant until the conclusion of the elections. Emphasizing the importance of diligence, he directed Deputy Commissioners and District Police Officers to personally monitor all matters, ensuring timely transportation of election staff and equipment, accommodation and security for women staff, and adherence to Election Commission’s orders.

The CM assured full support from the provincial government, urging authorities to pay special attention to the security of foreigners involved in national projects in Hazara Division. He also raised the issue of zero load shedding during election days, securing assurance from the Federal Secretary Energy that there would be no electricity load shedding from February 7 to February 9, considering the harsh weather conditions in the province. The CM directed the provincial authorities to officially communicate this directive.