In the backdrop of escalating election-related violence during political campaigns in Pakistan, Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi sought to reassure the public on Saturday, affirming that the upcoming polls scheduled for February 8 will be conducted peacefully.

Addressing a press conference in the federal capital, Solangi outlined that comprehensive arrangements related to the elections have been finalized, with a well-structured security plan in place. He detailed the security division into three tiers, with the police, Rangers, and Frontier Constabulary handling the first and second tiers, while the third tier of security will be under the purview of the Pakistan Army.

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Reflecting on past elections marred by deteriorating law and order, Solangi noted incidents of terrorism during the 2008 and 2013 general elections. He attributed the rise in terrorism to the Taliban’s control of the Kabul government, emphasizing the use of Afghanistan as a safe haven by Al-Qaeda and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Solangi assured that extensive security measures have been implemented at polling stations, emphasizing the full preparedness of security forces for the upcoming elections. He highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to taking action against terrorists.

Concerns have arisen due to the security situation in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan provinces, where recent attacks on political rallies, offices, and candidates have surged. The murder of an independent candidate, Rehan Zeb Khan, in Bajaur and other incidents prompted the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to take notice. The ECP is actively addressing incidents such as firing on a political party’s convoy in Qila Abdullah district, a grenade attack in Kech district, and a bomb attack at a political party’s election office in Quetta, seeking immediate reports from provincial authorities.