First-Time Voter’s Guide Smooth Voting in Pakistan’s General Elections
As Pakistan gears up for the general elections scheduled for February 8, many citizens will be exercising their right to vote for the first time. To ensure a smooth and secure voting process, Business Recorder is breaking down the essential steps for our readers.
Finding Your Polling Station
To avoid any confusion on election day, it’s crucial to know where you’ll be casting your ballot ahead of time. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has introduced a convenient text message service for this purpose. Simply text your National Identity Card (NIC) number to 8300, ensuring no spaces or dashes between digits. You’ll receive your constituency details promptly.
Essential Documents
Bringing your NIC to the polling station is mandatory. Photocopies and other documents won’t be accepted. Remember to leave your cell phone at home or in a secure place, as they are not allowed inside the polling station.
Voting Process
Voting will take place from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, so try to arrive early to avoid long queues. Once in line, the presiding officer will verify your name and electoral number. Upon verification, you’ll be provided with two ballots: a white one for the provincial parliament and a green one for the national assembly.
Marking Your Ballot
After receiving your ballots, ensure they have the ECP watermark and the official nine-matrix seal. Avoid ballots with any attachments or stamps on more than one candidate’s election symbols. Proceed to a private voting booth to mark your choices on both ballots. Once done, carefully fold each ballot and insert them into the designated boxes the green-topped box for the green ballot paper and the white-topped box for the white ballot paper.
Final Steps
Before leaving, ensure the presiding officer imprints your thumb impression on the electoral rolls to demonstrate that you’ve voted. Double-check that the ink is dry on your thumb and the ballots before folding them. Once completed, your voting process is secure, and you’ve successfully exercised your democratic right.
By following these simple steps, voters can ensure a smooth and secure voting experience in the upcoming elections.
