The Election Commission (EC) has issued clear instructions that it is a punishable offense for government officials and employees to solicit votes or campaign for any party – whether they vote ‘yes’ or ‘no’ – in a referendum.
A letter in this regard was sent to all returning officers of the country on Thursday. At the same time, a copy of the letter was also sent to the Cabinet Secretary, Principal Secretary to the Chief Advisor and other concerned persons.
The EC directive states that government employees can inform and sensitize the public about the referendum, but in no way can they call for voting ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Such activities will be considered a punishable offense under the Referendum Ordinance, 2025 and the Representation of the People Order, 1972.
The Election Commission has issued this directive in the context of allegations and controversy over campaigning by the government ahead of the February 12 referendum. The EC has directed the concerned authorities to take necessary action as per the relevant law.