Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) chairperson Zohra Yusuf has said the Election Commission’s (EC) decision regarding re-polling at polling stations where less than 10 percent of the registered women voters exercise their right to vote was a welcome step. Speaking after the conclusion of HRCP council meeting on Sunday, Zohra said, “This decision must be implemented as it will increase women’s participation in the electoral process and also prevent the enacting of illegal pacts amongst candidates and political parties to bar women from voting.” “The future of democracy and the state’s integrity depend on holding free and fair elections,” she said adding that all political parties, media and civil society organisations need to play their part in ensuring peaceful and free elections, particularly in Balochistan.
