In a bid to ensure smooth proceedings during the upcoming general elections scheduled for February 8, the Election Commission of Pakistan has taken a decisive step by canceling holidays for all federal government officials, including educational staff in Islamabad. The move comes as part of an effort to maintain efficiency and focus during the crucial electoral period.
The directive, issued by the Islamabad deputy commissioner on the explicit instructions of the Election Commission of Pakistan, imposes a ban on holidays for government officials in the federal capital until the culmination of the February general elections. The order stipulates that sick leaves will only be granted in cases of maternity or with the express permission of a medical officer, while all other types of leaves will not be allowed.
Furthermore, officials within the federal education system and affiliated institutions have been instructed to refrain from leaving the city. The deputy commissioner has emphasized that officers and officials are expected to remain in the capital even during the winter vacation, with a specific focus on attending training sessions for polling staff at their designated posting stations.
The directive underscores the importance of officials’ presence at their assigned stations, particularly for training purposes related to the upcoming elections. It also stresses the adherence to the Election Commission of Pakistan’s guidelines and instructions.
Simultaneously, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has resumed the training of district returning officers (DROs) and returning officers (ROs) nationwide, aligning with the directives of the Supreme Court. Currently, 144 DROs and 850 ROs are undergoing training conducted by senior ECP officers, with the spokesperson noting that the comprehensive training program is slated for completion by December 19.
