Chief Election Commissioner of Pakistan, Justice Abdul Hameed Dogar on Saturday said the coming local government elections will be held as per schedule in a fair and transparent manner.
Talking to newsmen after presiding over a meeting here to review arrangements for conducting the forth coming local government elections he said, "No interference from any quarter will be tolerated and transparency in elections will be ensured at every cost."
The meeting was attended by Provincial Election Commissioner, Secretary Election Commission, Chief Secretary Punjab, I.G. Punjab and other concerned officials.
Responding to a question, the CEO said that political interference will not be tolerated, adding, "As the polls are being held on non-party basis, political parties will not be allowed to support any candidate."
He said a comprehensive code of conduct would be issued on July 11, which would cover all aspects pertaining to elections. And those found violating the code - whether they are candidates, political parties or officials - would be strictly dealt with according to law.
He said transfers and postings have been banned to ensure impartiality of officials, adding that transfers and postings which were made after the announcement of the election schedule, have already been cancelled.
About the possibility of postponement of elections due to the flash floods in different areas of the country, Justice Abdul Hameed said hopefully the situation would be normal by the time of polling.
To a question, the CEC said the international media as well as observers are taking interest in the elections.
"We will make arrangements for their visits to different polling stations in all the four provinces", he added. Earlier, addressing the meeting, he expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made in the province for holding the polls in a free and f air manner.
"Fairness in the conduct of elections should be our top priority and there should be no compromise in this regard," he observed.
Appreciating the arrangements made by the police in connection with ensuring peace during the polling, he said there should be no hesitation.