Guide on Participating in Elections: Step-by-Step Instructions

As Pakistan prepares for the forthcoming national elections scheduled for February 8, it stands at a pivotal juncture in its democratic evolution. The outcome of this election holds immense significance, as it will determine the trajectory of the country’s leadership and profoundly impact the lives of its 128 million eligible voters.

Active engagement in civic affairs is integral to fostering a robust democracy, and voting stands as the paramount means through which individuals can ensure their voices are heard in Pakistan. Below is an extensive manual outlining the process of participating in Pakistan’s electoral system.

Criteria for Voter Eligibility:

To qualify for voting in Pakistan, individuals must meet the following requirements:

• Hold citizenship of the country.
• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Possess a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) issued by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).
• Not have been declared legally incompetent by a competent court.
• Reside in the electoral area corresponding to the address listed on their CNIC.

Voter Registration:

Although voter registration remains open throughout the year, once the election timetable is announced, the electoral rolls are frozen, and no new registrations are accepted until after the elections have concluded.

To verify registration status, individuals can text their CNIC number to 8300 to receive details about their assigned polling station and eligibility.

Casting Your Vote:

• To cast a vote, individuals must personally appear at the designated polling station with their original CNIC; photocopies are not accepted.

• Upon arrival, the presiding officer will verify the individual’s details against the electoral list, announce their name, and mark them as having received a ballot.

• Given that national and provincial assembly elections are conducted concurrently, voters will be provided with two separate ballot papers.

• Each ballot paper is stamped and signed by the presiding officer, and a vote is only considered valid if the stamp or signature is present.

• Once received, voters should use the provided stamp to mark the space corresponding to their preferred candidate’s name and symbol on each ballot paper.

• After marking, fold the ballot paper lengthwise to prevent ink from spreading and insert it into the designated ballot box.

• Care should be taken to avoid ink spillage onto other candidates’ spaces, as this may lead to the rejection of the vote.

• In cases where assistance is required, the presiding officer may permit voters to receive aid in completing the voting process.

Conclusion:

Participation in the democratic process holds immense significance in shaping the future of the nation. Each individual vote holds weight and contributes to Pakistan’s democratic journey. Let your voice serve as a catalyst for positive change.