The federal government has approved the deployment of the Pakistan Army and civil armed forces to secure the by-elections scheduled for November 23, 2025. The decision follows a formal request from the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to ensure a peaceful electoral process across the country.
Deployment Schedule and Structure
The armed forces will remain deployed from November 22 to 24. The civil armed forces will operate as second-tier responders in a standby or quick reaction mode. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Army will act as third-tier responders with in-situ quick reaction capability. Rangers have also been authorised to perform duties as immediate response units, according to the ECP.
Legal Empowerment Under Anti-Terrorism Act
The Interior Ministry clarified that deployed forces have been empowered under Sections 4 and 5 of the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997. This legal authority enables them to take necessary action in emergencies, violations, or criminal incidents during the by-elections. Officials deployed with first-class magistrate powers can address security challenges promptly.
Seats Contested in Upcoming By-Polls
The ECP will conduct by-elections for six National Assembly seats and seven Punjab provincial assembly seats. Authorities emphasised that armed forces support is intended solely to maintain law and order and ensure that the electoral process is conducted peacefully.
Security Concerns Ahead of Polls
The decision comes following ECP notices regarding remarks made by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi during a political gathering. The commission had expressed concerns that CM Afridi allegedly “threatened” officials involved in Haripur by-election preparations. Letters were sent to the Defence and Interior Ministries citing harassment and undue influence on district administrators, police officers, and ECP staff.
CM Afridi, however, clarified that his statements were taken out of context. He stated that he did not campaign for any candidate and only urged for a fair and rig-free polling process.
ECP’s Multi-Layer Security Strategy
In addition to army and civil armed forces, the ECP has mobilised local police to support the by-elections. The deployment follows a multi-tiered strategy to handle emergencies and violations effectively. Armed personnel will remain on standby to ensure smooth polling operations and immediate intervention if necessary.
This comprehensive security arrangement highlights the government’s commitment to safe and transparent elections. Authorities will closely monitor operations to ensure all voters can cast their ballots without fear or disruption.
Objective: Peaceful and Fair Polling
The deployment underscores the federal government and ECP’s priority of upholding the integrity of the electoral process. By combining legal authority, military support, and civil enforcement, the authorities aim to create a secure environment for voters and election staff alike.
